About the Role
Our client, a leading entity in the Mining and heavy industry sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Maintenance Engineer to manage and optimize maintenance operations for their extensive fleet of mining equipment and plant machinery in East London, Eastern Cape . This critical role involves leading a team of maintenance technicians and supervisors, ensuring the reliability and availability of assets through effective planned and corrective maintenance strategies. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in mechanical or electrical engineering, extensive experience with heavy mining equipment, and proven leadership capabilities. We are dedicated to operational excellence and minimizing downtime, making this position vital to our productivity and profitability. This is an outstanding opportunity for a seasoned maintenance professional to make a significant impact on operational efficiency and asset longevity. The company employs advanced maintenance management systems and fosters a culture of continuous improvement. Ensuring maximum equipment uptime is paramount.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, mentor, and manage the maintenance team, including technicians, supervisors, and planners.
- Develop, implement, and oversee comprehensive planned maintenance programs for mining equipment and plant machinery.
- Ensure timely and effective execution of corrective maintenance activities to minimize downtime.
- Manage spare parts inventory and procurement processes to support maintenance activities.
- Oversee the implementation and utilization of Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) for work order management, asset tracking, and reporting.
- Conduct root cause analysis of equipment failures and implement preventive measures.
- Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations during maintenance activities.
- Develop and manage the departmental maintenance budget, controlling costs effectively.
- Collaborate with operations and engineering teams to optimize equipment performance and reliability.
- Continuously identify opportunities for improving maintenance strategies, processes, and technologies.
Requirements
- BEng or BSc in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum of 7 years of experience in maintenance engineering, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role, preferably in the mining or heavy industry sector.
- Extensive knowledge of heavy mining equipment (e.g., excavators, haul trucks, crushers, conveyors) and associated maintenance practices.
- Proficiency in using CMMS software (e.g., SAP PM, Maximo).
- Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems.
- Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Experience in budget management and cost control.
- Knowledge of South African health and safety regulations relevant to mining maintenance.
- Commitment to a proactive safety culture and environmental responsibility.
Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and leadership responsibilities.
- Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
- Generous annual leave and potential for performance-based bonuses.
- Relocation assistance may be provided.
- Opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement.
- Exposure to a wide range of mining equipment and maintenance challenges.
- A safe and supportive working environment with a focus on technical excellence.
- Be part of a reputable organization committed to operational efficiency.