Fleet Manager

Craven Cottage CC; Noordwes; On-site; ZAR 223,200 - 390,600; Full time

Job summary

Craven Cottage CC is seeking an experienced Mechanics Supervisor based in South Africa, Noordwes. This role involves overseeing the maintenance, servicing, and repairs of all lodge vehicles and equipment. You will lead a team and ensure all operational standards meet luxury lodge requirements.

The ideal candidate will possess strong mechanical skills with a trade qualification, at least 5 years of experience, and demonstrated leadership abilities in a remote environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–8 years of mechanical experience.
• At least 3 years in a supervisory/managerial role.
• Experience in fleet management, remote/lodge operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee maintenance and repairs of lodge vehicles and equipment.
• Manage preventative maintenance schedules.
• Lead and motivate a team of mechanics and assistants.

Skills

Strong communication (verbal & written)

Leadership and people management

Problem-solving and decision-making

Planning and organisational skills

Strong mechanical and diagnostic skills

Education

Trade qualification in Diesel Mechanic / Motor Mechanic / Auto Electrician

Job description

Duties

Oversee the maintenance, servicing, and repairs of all lodge vehicles and equipment, including:

• Management and manage preventative maintenance schedules to minimise breakdowns.
• Ensure all vehicles are roadworthy, safe, and compliant with legal and reserve requirements.
• Maintain detailed service records and asset registers.
• Advise management on new technology, equipment, vehicles, and best practices that should implement to improve efficiencies and costs.
• Lead, manage, and motivate a team comprising: Mechanics Workshop assistants.
• Allocate daily tasks to ensure efficient workflow.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide coaching and skills development.
• Enforce discipline, productivity, and high workmanship standards.
• Develop weekly and monthly workshop plans and maintenance schedules.
• Prioritise urgent repairs to minimise operational disruptions.
• Coordinate closely with Lodge operations, Guiding department and Service Teams.
• Ensure standby and emergency mechanical support is available.
• Manage workshop inventory, tools, spares, lubricants, and consumables.
• Maintain minimum stock levels and reorder timeously.
• Source suppliers, negotiate pricing, and control costs.
• Prepare and manage workshop budgets.
• Reduce waste and ensure cost-effective repairs.
• Ensure full compliance with the Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA), environmental regulations and internal safety standards.
• Conduct toolbox talks and safety briefings.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and hazard-free workshop.
• Enforce PPE usage and safe work practices.
• Inspect completed work for quality and safety.
• Implement workshop best practices and SOPs.
• Ensure all repairs meet luxury lodge operational standards.
• Promote a preventative maintenance culture rather than reactive repairs.

Requirements

• Trade qualification in: Diesel Mechanic / Motor Mechanic / Auto Electrician.
• Valid driver’s license (Code B minimum; Code C/EC advantageous).
• Computer literacy (basic Excel, email, maintenance systems).
• Minimum 5–8 years of mechanical experience.
• At least 3 years in a supervisory/managerial role.
• Experience in fleet management, remote/lodge operations.
• Strong mechanical and diagnostic skills.
• Knowledge of diesel engines and 4x4 vehicles.
• Generator and plant equipment experience.
• Preventative maintenance systems.
• Leadership and people management.
• Planning and organisational skills.
• Problem-solving and decision-making.
• Strong communication (verbal & written).
• Ability to work under pressure in remote environments.