Workshop Assistant Manager

Yapidmas Plantation Sdn Bhd; Sandakan; On-site; MYR 20,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A plantation company in Sandakan is seeking an experienced workshop assistant manager to oversee maintenance activities, ensuring all machinery and estates operate efficiently. The ideal candidate has at least 5 years of experience in a similar role and holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Responsibilities include managing team operations, technical advisory on projects, and ensuring adherence to safety and regulatory standards. Strong leadership and problem-solving skills are essential. Competitive salary and benefits offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years experience in a similar role, preferably in the plantation or agricultural industry.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage and monitor workshop and road team operations.
• Ensure timely procurement of supplies and spare parts.
• Provide technical advice and develop record-keeping systems.
• Promote compliance with MSPO/RSPO standards.

Skills

Leadership and team management

Problem-solving

Planning and organizational skills

Effective communication

Education

Degree or diploma in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

Computer-aided maintenance management systems

MS Office

Job description

Job Purpose

To support the Head of Operations in managing workshop and road maintenance activities, ensuring all machinery, vehicles, and estate roads are maintained efficiently to enable smooth estate operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage, plan and monitor workshop and road team operations to ensure efficiency, quality workmanship and minimal downtime.
• Ensure timely procurement of supplies, spare parts and materials, liaising with Head of Operations and Estate Managers before issuing purchase orders.
• Provide technical advice for key projects and offer expertise on machinery, equipment and road works.
• Develop and maintain an effective record‑keeping system for job orders, service reports and maintenance logs.
• Identify training needs and facilitate skill development for workshop and road team staff; mentor apprentices and semi‑skilled workers.
• Investigate complaints related to repairs, breakdowns and services; recommend corrective and preventive measures.
• Prepare and submit monthly operational reports to the Head of Operations.
• Promote a strong health and safety culture and ensure compliance with company SOPs and legal requirements.
• Ensure MSPO/RSPO standards are implemented and adhered to in all operations.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 5 years experience in a similar workshop assistant manager or senior technician role, preferably in the plantation or agricultural industry.
• A degree or diploma in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to effectively manage and motivate a team of workshop technicians.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills, with the ability to diagnose and troubleshoot complex mechanical issues.
• Proficient in the use of workshop tools, equipment and computer‑aided maintenance management systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with various stakeholders.
• A keen eye for detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
• Familiarity with relevant industry regulations and safety protocols.
• Experience in high‑repair‑cost environments and managing spare part supply constraints.
• Ability to work independently and deliver results in geographically scattered estates.

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership and team management.
• Problem‑solving and decision‑making.
• Planning and organisational skills.
• Effective communication.

Technical Skills

• Expertise in machinery and equipment maintenance: tractors, excavators, bulldozers, loaders.
• Spare parts and inventory management.
• Proficiency in reporting and documentation using MS Office.
• Knowledge of road maintenance practices.

Success Parameters

• Reduced machinery and vehicle downtime.
• Effective cost control in workshop and road operations.
• High standards of workmanship.
• Improved staff retention and competency.
• Zero fatal accidents and strong safety compliance.
• Full adherence to MSPO/RSPO requirements.