Lead Maintenance Supervisor - Heavy Equipment

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid benefits

Pension fund

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, is seeking an experienced Lead Maintenance Supervisor to oversee the maintenance and repair of heavy earth-moving equipment. You will lead a team of technicians, implement preventative maintenance programs, and minimize downtime in a demanding mining environment.

A strong background in diesel, hydraulics and electrical systems is essential, with CMMS proficiency. Experience with major OEMs and a hands-on leadership approach are highly valued.

Qualifications

• Trade qualification or National Diploma in mechanical field.
• Minimum 6 years' experience with heavy earth-moving equipment maintenance.
• At least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of diesel engines, powertrains, hydraulics and electrical systems.
• Experience with OEMs such as Caterpillar, Komatsu, Liebherr, or Bell.
• Proficiency with diagnostic tools and CMMS software.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily maintenance team including mechanics and hydraulic specialists.
• Develop and manage preventative maintenance schedules for heavy equipment.
• Oversee diagnosis and repair of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic failures.
• Manage spare parts inventory and procurement.
• Ensure health, safety and environmental compliance.
• Maintain CMMS-based maintenance records.
• Train and mentor junior technicians for safety and skills.
• Collaborate with operations to optimize equipment availability.

Skills

Leadership

Maintenance management

Diesel engines

Hydraulics

Electrical systems

CMMS

Diagnostics tools

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Trade qualification

National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CMMS software

Diagnostic tools

OEM knowledge

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the South African mining industry, is seeking an experienced and proactive Lead Maintenance Supervisor to manage the maintenance and repair of heavy earth-moving equipment in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This critical role ensures the optimal performance and longevity of our extensive fleet of machinery, which is vital for our mining operations. The successful candidate will lead a team of skilled technicians, oversee preventative maintenance programs, and manage repair operations to minimize downtime and ensure operational efficiency. We are looking for a hands‑on leader with a strong technical background in heavy diesel mechanics and hydraulics, and a proven ability to manage maintenance teams in a demanding industrial environment. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the smooth running of large-scale mining projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate the daily activities of the maintenance team, including mechanics, electricians, and hydraulic specialists.
• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules for all heavy equipment, including excavators, haul trucks, dozers, and loaders.
• Oversee the diagnosis and repair of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems failures, ensuring quality workmanship and timely completion.
• Manage spare parts inventory, ensuring adequate stock levels and cost‑effective procurement.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations in the workshop and on site.
• Maintain detailed maintenance records using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
• Train and mentor junior technicians, fostering skill development and a safety-conscious culture.
• Collaborate with operations management to optimize equipment availability and minimize production delays.

Requirements

• A relevant trade qualification (e.g., Diesel Mechanic, Heavy Equipment Technician) or a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in the maintenance and repair of heavy earth-moving equipment, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Strong technical expertise in diesel engines, power trains, hydraulics, and electrical systems specific to mining equipment.
• Experience with major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) such as Caterpillar, Komatsu, Liebherr, or Bell is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in using diagnostic tools and CMMS software.
• Excellent leadership, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Valid driver's license; ability to pass a medical examination for underground work may be required.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid benefits, participation in a company pension fund, and opportunities for further training and career advancement. This role provides stability and the chance to work with a significant fleet of modern mining machinery in a challenging yet rewarding operational setting.