Engineer

KingsleyIrons Recruitment Services CC; Tzaneen; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading production/processing operation in Tzaneen seeks a results-driven Engineer to oversee engineering strategy, plant maintenance, project execution, and statutory compliance. This hands-on role requires a qualified Electrical or Mechanical Engineer with 3-5 years of experience in sawmilling or a manufacturing environment. The Engineer will lead a multi-skilled team, manage budgets, and ensure the safe operation of machinery. Excellent communication and leadership skills, along with a structured, analytical approach, are essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in sawmilling/manufacturing/production environment.
• Candidate should reside in or close to Tzaneen or be willing to relocate.

Responsibilities

• Set and implement engineering strategies and planned maintenance programmes across machinery, vehicles, buildings, and utilities.
• Lead, develop, and coordinate a multi-skilled maintenance and engineering team.
• Compile and manage engineering budgets; oversee capital projects and annual shutdown planning.
• Ensure minimal downtime and optimal plant availability through disciplined maintenance and asset management.
• Manage contractor and supplier performance, ensuring alignment with statutory, company, and technical standards.

Skills

Knowledgeable in Loss Control

Strong verbal communication

Effective time management

Attention to detail

Able to work independently

Collaborative leadership

Education

Qualified Electrical or Mechanical Engineer (with Government Certificate of Competency)

Job description

Description/Synopsis

A leading production/ processing operation in Tzaneen seeks a results‑driven Engineer to oversee engineering strategy, plant maintenance, project execution, and statutory compliance. This hands‑on management role offers broad responsibility—leading preventive and planned maintenance, heading capital projects, and ensuring the safe and legal operation of all machinery and plant assets. Your ability to coordinate cross‑disciplinary teams and contractors, develop long‑term plans, and sustain operational excellence will be key to ongoing plant reliability and performance. This is a great opportunity for an Engineer who excels in a manufacturing, sawmilling, or production environment and is ready to make a significant impact.

Minimum Requirements

• Qualified Electrical or Mechanical Engineer (with Government Certificate of Competency)
• 3 – 5 years’ experience in sawmilling/ manufacturing/production environment
• Knowledgeable in Loss Control, Occupational Health and Safety Act & GMR(2) appointment responsibilities
• Strong verbal, written and interpersonal skills
• Effective time management and attention to detail
• Able to work independently and build strong technical teams
• High integrity, values‑driven, quality and results‑oriented
• Candidate should reside in or close to Tzaneen – or be willing to relocate.

Main Responsibilities

• Set and implement engineering strategies and planned maintenance programmes across machinery, vehicles, buildings, and utilities
• Lead, develop, and coordinate a multi‑skilled maintenance and engineering team
• Compile, manage, and control engineering budgets; oversee capital projects and annual shutdown planning
• Ensure minimal downtime and optimal plant availability through disciplined maintenance and asset management
• Conduct project feasibility studies, cost analyses, and compliance calculations
• Manage contractor and supplier performance, ensuring alignment with statutory, company, and technical standards
• Oversee all compliance and safety requirements under GMR(2), OHSA, Vessels Under Pressure, Air Quality Act, and other regulations
• Management and Control of Burners and Boilers
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through research, five‑year tactical planning, and hands‑on collaboration with internal and external stakeholders
• Oversee statutory testing/certification for critical machinery, burners and boilers, lifting equipment, and saw blades
• Monitor and improve loss control mechanisms, environmental controls, and fire safety programs

Soft Skills/Additional Info

• Structured, analytical approach and strong planning skills
• Collaborative leadership style—motivates and develops teams
• Commercial acumen: budget management and cost effectiveness
• Focused, resilient and service‑driven under pressure
• Technology‑aware, process‑driven, and committed to best practice