Hydraulic Systems Technician – Heavy Machinery

Caterpillar South Africa; Vanderbijlpark; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Bonuses

Tools provided

Canteen & transport

Job summary

Caterpillar South Africa is seeking a Hydraulic Systems Technician in Vanderbijlpark to maintain, diagnose and repair complex hydraulic circuits on large excavators, loaders and earthmoving equipment. The role demands hands-on work in a high-pressure environment and precise interpretation of schematics to minimize downtime.

Ideal candidates hold a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering with 3–5 years of relevant experience and a strong safety mindset.

Qualifications

• Advanced ability to read hydraulic circuit diagrams and schematics.
• Experience using specialized diagnostic tools for hydraulic systems.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with knowledge of heavy machinery components.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced diagnostic testing on high-pressure hydraulic systems to identify leaks, pressure drops, or component failures.
• Execute preventative maintenance schedules on heavy-duty earthmoving equipment to ensure maximum uptime.
• Interpret complex hydraulic and mechanical blueprints and manuals to guide repair processes.
• Replace and calibrate hydraulic pumps, valves, cylinders, and control systems.
• Maintain detailed service logs and technical reports for every machine serviced.
• Collaborate with the engineering team to troubleshoot recurring mechanical issues in the field.

Skills

Hydraulic diagrams

Diagnostic tools

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Safety in high‑pressure environments

Education

National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Hydraulic testing equipment

Pressure gauges

Flow meters

Job description

Caterpillar South Africa is seeking a Hydraulic Systems Technician in Vanderbijlpark to maintain, diagnose and repair complex hydraulic circuits on large excavators, loaders and earthmoving equipment. The role demands hands-on work in a high-pressure environment and precise interpretation of schematics to minimize downtime.

Ideal candidates hold a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering with 3–5 years of relevant experience and a strong safety mindset.