Head Mechanic - Durban

Findojobs South Africa; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company in KwaZulu-Natal seeks an experienced professional to manage spares budgets, implement maintenance plans, and ensure optimal machine operation. Candidates should have 3-5 years of relevant experience, qualifications in repairs, and strong analytical and leadership skills. The role focuses on continuous improvement and effective resource management, highlighting the importance of teamwork and responsiveness.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in the manufacturing industry.
• Experience in managing budgets, spares, and parts.
• Experience in waste management reviews and reducing downtime.

Responsibilities

• Ensure spares budgets are adhered to and managed effectively.
• Develop and report on continuous improvement initiatives.
• Implement individual development plans and identify training needs.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Strong interpersonal skills

Team-oriented attitude

Responsiveness and sense of urgency

Strong leadership qualities

Education

Sewing Machine/Repairs and Maintenance qualification or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Responsibilities:

1. Ensure spares budgets are adhered to and managed effectively.
2. Maintain budgets within limits and identify opportunities for cost savings.
3. Monitor and report on critical spares to prevent stockouts.
4. Minimize unplanned downtime through effective planning and maintenance.
5. Implement preventative maintenance and maintenance plans to reduce downtime.
6. Reduce waste related to time and costs.
7. Develop and report on continuous improvement initiatives.
8. Ensure machines operate optimally to maximize output.
9. Ensure all machines are properly serviced with documented maintenance procedures.
10. Maintain critical spares availability to reduce downtime.
11. Plan and communicate mechanic coverage and availability per production line.
12. Record and report on mechanic resource planning.
13. Develop a skills matrix for mechanics, identify training opportunities, and evaluate staff performance.
14. Ensure mechanics stay on the line to share knowledge, with monthly feedback from line management.
15. Participate in production planning, ensuring quality and maintenance plans are followed.
16. Research and implement the latest technologies and developments.
17. Encourage staff exposure to new technologies and continuous improvement.
18. Maintain discipline and a healthy safety environment in accordance with company policies.
19. Implement individual development plans and identify training needs.
20. Communicate the code of conduct regularly.
21. Generate and monitor health and safety reports.

Requirements:

1. 3-5 years of experience in the manufacturing industry.
2. Sewing Machine/Repairs and Maintenance qualification or equivalent.
3. Experience in managing budgets, spares, and parts.
4. Experience in waste management reviews and reducing downtime.
5. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
6. Experience managing a workshop and responding promptly to production needs.
7. Experience setting up production lines and managing line changes.
8. Experience in reporting and data analysis.

Competencies and Behaviors for Success:

1. Analytical thinking.
2. Strong interpersonal skills.
3. Team-oriented attitude.
4. Responsiveness and sense of urgency.
5. Strong leadership qualities.

Please ensure your Line Manager is aware of and supports your application.

Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups, in line with the Employment Equity Act.