Workshop Manager / Foreman

Professional Resources Partners Pty Ltd; Durban; On-site; ZAR 30 000 - 50 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the forklift industry is seeking a Workshop Manager to oversee operations in their Durban workshop. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in managing workshop activities, strong technical knowledge of forklifts, and excellent leadership skills. This role involves ensuring quality service, managing a team, and maintaining safety standards.

Benefits

Medical aid

Provident fund after 6 months

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Workshop Manager or similar role in the forklift or heavy machinery industry.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in a workshop environment, with at least 5 years in a managerial role.
• Strong technical knowledge of diesel and electric forklifts.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the efficient operation of the forklift workshop.
• Manage the servicing and repair of customer machines.
• Lead a team of technicians and ensure customer satisfaction.

Skills

Leadership

Problem Solving

Customer Service

Technical Knowledge

Communication

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Certification in Forklift Maintenance and Repair

Tools

Workshop Management Software

Job description

Medical aid and provident fund after 6 months of employment.

Position Overview :

The Workshop Manager is responsible for overseeing the efficient and effective operation of the forklift workshop. This role includes managing the servicing and repair of customer machines, refurbishing forklifts, rental forklifts and ensuring all pre-delivery inspections (PDI) are conducted to the highest standard. The Workshop Manager will lead a team of technicians, ensure customer satisfaction, and uphold safety and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities :

• Workshop Operations Management :
• Plan, coordinate, and oversee all workshop activities, including repairs, servicing, and refurbishments.
• Ensure timely and efficient completion of all work orders and customer requests.
• Monitor and manage the workflow to meet production targets and deadlines.
• Team Leadership and Development :
• Supervise, train, and mentor a team of workshop technicians and support staff.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide feedback.
• Foster a positive and productive work environment that encourages teamwork and continuous improvement.
• Customer Service :
• Maintain strong relationships with customers, addressing their needs and concerns promptly.
• Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction through quality service and timely delivery of forklifts.
• Liaise with customers to provide updates on the status of their machines.
• Quality Control and Safety :
• Implement and maintain safety standards and protocols within the workshop.
• Ensure all work complies with company quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Establish and review quality and regulatory standards regularly.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits to maintain a safe working environment and ensure adherence to quality standards.
• Inventory and Resource Management :
• Oversee the procurement and inventory management of parts and equipment.
• Ensure tools and machinery are well-maintained and available for use.
• Monitor workshop expenses and work within budget constraints.
• Manage overtime ensuring no unnecessary overtime is worked.
• Reporting and Documentation :
• Prepare and submit regular reports on workshop performance, including productivity, quality, and financial metrics.
• Maintain accurate records of all work performed, parts used, and customer interactions.
• Monitor work in progress (WIP) report ensuring all work in completed in acceptable time.
• Collaboration and Coordination :
• Work closely with other departments, such as Sales, Product support, Rental and the PDI team, to ensure seamless operations.
• Coordinate with external suppliers and service providers as needed.

Qualifications and Skills :

• Proven experience as a Workshop Manager or similar role in the forklift or heavy machinery industry.
• Strong technical knowledge of diesel and electric forklifts and related machinery.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and customer service skills.
• Proficiency in using workshop management software and tools would be a plus.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Education and Experience :

• Qualified or knowledge of electric forklifts.
• Degree in mechanical engineering, Automotive Technology, or a related field would be a plus
• Certification in forklift maintenance and repair is preferred.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in a workshop environment, with at least 5 years in a managerial role.

Working Conditions :

• This role requires working in a workshop environment, which may involve exposure to noise, dust, and machinery.
• The Workshop Manager may be required to work extended hours or weekends to meet operational demands.