Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician in Bloemfontein to ensure the uptime of a broad fleet of excavators, loaders, bulldozers and cranes.

You will perform inspections, diagnostics, repairs and preventative maintenance in a hybrid workshop/field setting, collaborating with operators and site managers to keep projects on schedule and equipment reliable across the Free State region.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician or Mechanic.
• Strong diagnostic skills in mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems.
• Ability to read manuals, schematics and repair guides.
• Experience with diagnostic equipment and heavy equipment repair tools.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule, including potential weekend or on-call duties.
• Valid driver’s license; heavy vehicle license preferred.
• Formal training or certification in heavy equipment mechanics.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive inspections and diagnostic tests on heavy construction equipment to identify mechanical and electrical issues.
• Conduct routine and scheduled preventative maintenance, including lubrication, fluid changes, and component checks.
• Repair and replace worn or faulty parts, including engines, transmissions, hydraulic systems, and electrical components.
• Interpret technical manuals, service bulletins, and diagnostic readouts to guide repair procedures.
• Utilize specialized tools and equipment for diagnostics, repair, and maintenance of heavy machinery.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex equipment malfunctions efficiently to minimize downtime.
• Maintain detailed service records, including work performed, parts used, and time spent.
• Ensure all maintenance and repair activities comply with safety regulations and company standards.

Skills

Heavy equipment maintenance

Hydraulic diagnostics

Reading schematics

Diagnostic equipment use

Valid driver’s license

Education

Trade certificate in Heavy Equipment Mechanics

Mechanic apprenticeship

Tools

Diagnostic tools

Multimeters / electrical testing tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the civil engineering and construction sector, is seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician to join their operations based in Bloemfontein. This role is critical for ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of their extensive fleet of heavy machinery, including excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and cranes. You will be responsible for conducting regular inspections, performing diagnostics, carrying out repairs, and implementing preventative maintenance programs. This position requires a hands-on approach, a deep understanding of heavy vehicle mechanics, and the ability to work effectively both in a workshop environment and occasionally on site. The role offers a blend of field and workshop responsibilities, reflecting a hybrid work model. You will be instrumental in keeping essential construction equipment operational, contributing directly to project timelines and success in the Free State region.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive inspections and diagnostic tests on heavy construction equipment to identify mechanical and electrical issues.
• Conduct routine and scheduled preventative maintenance, including lubrication, fluid changes, and component checks.
• Repair and replace worn or faulty parts, including engines, transmissions, hydraulic systems, and electrical components.
• Interpret technical manuals, service bulletins, and diagnostic readouts to guide repair procedures.
• Utilize specialized tools and equipment for diagnostics, repair, and maintenance of heavy machinery.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex equipment malfunctions efficiently to minimize downtime.
• Maintain detailed service records, including work performed, parts used, and time spent.
• Ensure all maintenance and repair activities comply with safety regulations and company standards.
• Collaborate with equipment operators and site managers to address maintenance needs and concerns.
• Stay updated on new equipment technologies and maintenance best practices.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician or Mechanic.
• Strong mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical diagnostic skills specific to heavy machinery.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical manuals, schematics, and repair guides.
• Experience operating diagnostic equipment and using specialized tools for heavy equipment repair.
• Knowledge of various heavy equipment types (e.g., Caterpillar, Komatsu, Liebherr) and their common issues.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting heavy components.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Valid driver's license; a heavy vehicle driver's license would be advantageous.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule, potentially including some weekend or on-call duties as required.
• Formal training or certification in heavy equipment mechanics or a related field is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund.
• Employees have access to ongoing training and development opportunities to stay current with technology.
• This role provides the opportunity to work with a modern fleet of heavy equipment and be part of significant infrastructure projects in the Bloemfontein area.
• Career advancement opportunities within the company are available for dedicated and skilled technicians.