Farm Machinery & Technology Supervisor

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary incentives

Medical aid

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Farm Machinery & Technology Supervisor for a major agricultural operation in Midrand, Gauteng. You will oversee a team of mechanics and operators, coordinate maintenance, and drive the integration of GPS, telematics and data platforms to boost productivity.

The role blends hands-on supervision with administrative planning, requires a trade qualification or agricultural eng degree, and offers a hybrid work setup with opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• Relevant trade qualification or Diploma/Degree in Agricultural Engineering or related field.
• Proven ability to supervise maintenance teams and optimize machinery performance.
• Experience with GPS, telematics and precision farming components.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage the daily activities of the farm's mechanical workshop and maintenance teams.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules for all farm machinery and equipment.
• Oversee routine servicing, repairs, and technical diagnostics of tractors, harvesters, implements, and other agricultural vehicles.
• Ensure the proper functioning and calibration of advanced agricultural technologies, including GPS guidance systems and auto-steer.
• Train farm operators on the safe and efficient use of machinery and integrated technologies.
• Manage inventory of spare parts, tools, and workshop supplies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical and technological issues with farm equipment.
• Evaluate and recommend new machinery and technology upgrades to improve operational efficiency.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance, repairs, and equipment usage.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations related to machinery operation and workshops.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Leadership

Team management

Problem-solving

GPS systems

Telematics

Precision farming

Education

Diploma/Degree in Agricultural Engineering or related field

Tools

GPS guidance systems

Auto-steer tech

Diagnostics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant agricultural operation based in Midrand, Gauteng, is seeking a skilled Farm Machinery & Technology Supervisor. This role is critical for ensuring the optimal performance, maintenance, and technological integration of all farm equipment and machinery. The ideal candidate will possess a strong mechanical aptitude combined with a solid understanding of modern agricultural technology, including GPS systems, automated machinery, and data collection platforms. Responsibilities include overseeing a team of mechanics and operators, managing maintenance schedules, troubleshooting equipment issues, and supporting the implementation of new technological solutions on the farm. This position requires a blend of practical, hands-on skills and strategic oversight, ensuring that our client's fleet of machinery operates efficiently and effectively to support crop production goals. The Midrand location serves as a central point for managing operations across various farm sites in Gauteng. The hybrid nature of the role allows for essential on-site supervision and coordination, complemented by administrative and planning tasks managed remotely.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage the daily activities of the farm's mechanical workshop and maintenance teams.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules for all farm machinery and equipment.
• Oversee routine servicing, repairs, and technical diagnostics of tractors, harvesters, implements, and other agricultural vehicles.
• Ensure the proper functioning and calibration of advanced agricultural technologies, including GPS guidance systems and auto-steer.
• Train farm operators on the safe and efficient use of machinery and integrated technologies.
• Manage inventory of spare parts, tools, and workshop supplies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical and technological issues with farm equipment.
• Evaluate and recommend new machinery and technology upgrades to improve operational efficiency.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance, repairs, and equipment usage.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations related to machinery operation and workshops.

Requirements

• A relevant trade qualification (e.g., Diesel Mechanic, Agricultural Machinery Technician) or a Diploma/Degree in Agricultural Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in heavy machinery maintenance and repair, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role within the agricultural sector.
• Proven experience with modern agricultural machinery and technologies, including GPS, telematics, and precision farming components.
• Strong mechanical diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication abilities.
• Proficiency in managing maintenance schedules and inventory control.
• Familiarity with agricultural practices and the demands placed on machinery.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and schematics.
• A valid driver's license is required; commercial driver's license is an advantage.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule, balancing on-site supervision with off-site administrative tasks.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive medical aid benefits.
• This role provides an excellent opportunity to work with a modern, technologically advanced agricultural operation in Midrand, Gauteng.
• Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement and the satisfaction of ensuring the smooth operation of critical farming assets.
• Benefits include opportunities for professional development and training in the latest agricultural technologies.
• Join a dedicated team committed to operational excellence in South Africa's agricultural sector.