Heavy Machinery Technician - Industrial Plant Operations

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 260,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary commensurate with experience

Medical aid

Retirement fund

On-the-job training

Tool allowance

Protective clothing

Opportunities for advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Heavy Machinery Technician to join our Richards Bay operation in KwaZulu-Natal. This on-site role focuses on maintenance and repair of heavy industrial equipment including excavators, cranes, conveyors, and processing gear.

You will ensure reliability and efficiency of machinery, with a strong emphasis on hydraulics, pneumatics and electrical controls. The ideal candidate will perform diagnostics, preventative maintenance, and swift breakdown responses,

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Heavy Machinery Technician or in a similar mechanical maintenance role.
• Strong knowledge of heavy equipment mechanics, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret complex technical manuals, schematics, and blueprints.
• Experience with diagnostic tools and equipment relevant to heavy machinery.
• Proficiency in welding, cutting, and fabrication is a significant advantage.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Physical ability to work in demanding industrial conditions and handle heavy components.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety and adherence to all safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive diagnostics, maintenance, and repair on a wide variety of heavy industrial machinery.
• Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance schedules to ensure optimal equipment performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic issues.
• Repair or replace worn or damaged parts, ensuring adherence to specifications.
• Interpret technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics to guide repair procedures.
• Perform welding, fabrication, and structural repairs as needed.
• Ensure all maintenance activities are performed safely and in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
• Maintain accurate records of all maintenance and repair work performed.
• Collaborate with plant operations teams to minimize equipment downtime and optimize production schedules.
• Operate diagnostic equipment and tools effectively.

Skills

Heavy machinery maintenance

Hydraulics

Pneumatics

Electrical systems

Diagnostics tools

Welding

Reading schematics

Safety compliance

Education

Trade qualification

Tools

Diagnostic tools

Hydraulic testing equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the industrial sector, is looking for a skilled Heavy Machinery Technician to join their operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This is a critical, on-site role focused on the maintenance and repair of heavy industrial equipment essential for plant operations. You will be responsible for ensuring the reliability and efficiency of large-scale machinery, including excavators, cranes, conveyor systems, and processing equipment. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with heavy mechanical systems, hydraulics, and pneumatics, coupled with a strong understanding of electrical controls. This position requires a proactive approach to preventative maintenance and a swift, effective response to breakdowns. You will work in a challenging industrial environment, contributing directly to the productivity and safety of the Richards Bay plant. Your expertise is vital to keeping our heavy machinery operational and minimizing costly downtime in this key KwaZulu-Natal industrial hub. This is a hands-on role demanding precision and resilience.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive diagnostics, maintenance, and repair on a wide variety of heavy industrial machinery.
• Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance schedules to ensure optimal equipment performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic issues.
• Repair or replace worn or damaged parts, ensuring adherence to specifications.
• Interpret technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics to guide repair procedures.
• Perform welding, fabrication, and structural repairs as needed.
• Ensure all maintenance activities are performed safely and in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
• Maintain accurate records of all maintenance and repair work performed.
• Collaborate with plant operations teams to minimize equipment downtime and optimize production schedules.
• Operate diagnostic equipment and tools effectively.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Heavy Machinery Technician or in a similar mechanical maintenance role within an industrial setting.
• Strong knowledge of heavy equipment mechanics, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret complex technical manuals, schematics, and blueprints.
• Experience with diagnostic tools and equipment relevant to heavy machinery.
• Proficiency in welding, cutting, and fabrication is a significant advantage.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Physical ability to work in demanding industrial conditions and handle heavy components.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety and adherence to all safety protocols.
• Valid driver's license and ability to work shifts, including weekends and public holidays if required.
• Relevant trade qualification (e.g., Mechanical Fitter, Diesel Mechanic) is essential.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with opportunities for overtime pay.
• Employees receive comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• The company provides extensive on-the-job training and opportunities for upskilling in specialized areas of heavy machinery maintenance.
• A tool allowance and protective clothing are supplied.
• This role offers stability and the chance to work with a variety of advanced industrial equipment in Richards Bay.
• You’ll be part of a vital operation within KwaZulu-Natal’s industrial landscape.
• Opportunities for advancement within the company are available for high-performing individuals.