Farm Mechanization Specialist

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health and wellness benefits

Professional training and development

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a skilled Farm Mechanization Specialist to lead the selection, operation, and upkeep of all farm machinery. You will optimize equipment fleets, advise on new technologies, and align mechanization strategies with production and sustainability goals.

The role requires a technical degree in Agricultural or Mechanical Engineering and at least five years in farm mechanization, including GPS and precision farming tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level qualification in Agricultural Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• 5+ years of farm mechanization or agricultural equipment management experience.
• Strong diagnostic and repair skills across farm machinery.

Responsibilities

• Oversee maintenance and operation of tractors, harvesters, planters, irrigation equipment.
• Evaluate new machinery and technologies to boost productivity and reduce costs.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules for the fleet.

Skills

Machinery diagnostics

Preventative maintenance

GPS precision farming

Education

Agricultural Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Farm Mechanization Specialist to join their progressive agricultural operations based in Durban . This crucial role focuses on the selection, operation, maintenance, and optimization of all farm machinery and equipment, ensuring peak efficiency and minimal downtime across diverse farming activities. You will be instrumental in advising on new technologies, managing equipment fleets, and ensuring that mechanization strategies align with the company's production goals and sustainability targets. This is a fantastic opportunity to apply your expertise in agricultural engineering and technology within a thriving agricultural hub in KwaZulu-Natal .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the maintenance, repair, and efficient operation of all farm machinery, including tractors, harvesters, planters, and irrigation equipment.
• Evaluate and recommend new agricultural machinery and technologies to improve productivity and reduce labor costs.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules for the entire equipment fleet.
• Train farm staff on the safe and effective operation of machinery and equipment.
• Manage spare parts inventory and coordinate with suppliers for timely procurement.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues and implement solutions to minimize operational disruptions.

Requirements

• A qualification in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in farm mechanization or agricultural equipment management.
• Proficiency in diagnosing and repairing a wide range of agricultural machinery.
• Understanding of hydraulics, electrical systems, and engine mechanics as applied to farm equipment.
• Experience with GPS guidance systems and precision farming technologies is essential.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a demanding environment.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Access to state-of-the-art agricultural equipment and technology.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional training and development in farm mechanization.
• A dynamic role within the vibrant agricultural sector of Durban .