Maintenance Manager

Staff Solutions Recruitment; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

A marine-industrial company in Gqeberha seeks a Maintenance Manager to oversee vessel and factory equipment maintenance, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency. The role requires a National Diploma in Engineering and at least 3 years of relevant experience in similar sectors. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in maintenance management.
• Experience in marine, fishing, transport, or related sectors is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Promote a strong culture of safety and compliance.
• Oversee maintenance and repair operations for vessels.
• Manage maintenance of onshore factory equipment.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Time management

Communication

Education

National Diploma in Engineering (preferably Mechanical)

BTech degree

Job description

Responsibilities

• Promote a strong culture of safety, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee maintenance and repair operations for all vessels to ensure minimal downtime and high availability.
• Provide technical input and guidance to senior management.
• Manage maintenance of onshore factory equipment, including refrigeration, ice-making systems, trio skinning machines, compressors, and associated machinery.
• Develop and monitor preventative maintenance schedules for both marine and factory assets.
• Lead the planning and execution of capital expenditure projects related to operational assets.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory standards, including those from SANS, OHSA, SAMSA, HACCP, and NRCS.
• Oversee vessel drydock projects and ensure all marine assets meet regulatory requirements.
• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary technical team, including coordination with vessel engineers and external contractors.
• Manage maintenance budgets, cost centres, and ensure cost-effective operations.
• Respond rapidly to breakdowns and implement long-term corrective measures.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, logs, and reports for all critical assets.

Qualifications

• National Diploma in Engineering (preferably Mechanical).
• A BTech degree will be advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum 3 years of experience in a similar maintenance management role.
• Experience in marine, fishing, transport, or related heavy industrial sectors is highly desirable.

Technical Competencies

• Sound understanding of marine vessel propulsion systems and auxiliary equipment.
• Proficient in diagnosing and maintaining mechanical and electrical systems in both marine and industrial contexts.
• Experience with refrigeration systems, cold storage, and ice-making equipment.
• Ability to develop and implement structured maintenance schedules.
• Strong project management skills in capital upgrades and maintenance activities.
• Competent in interpreting technical documentation and managing digital maintenance systems.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with inventory control, asset lifecycle planning, and contractor oversight.

Behavioural Competencies

• Takes ownership and demonstrates strong leadership qualities.
• Analytical thinker with solid problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Reliable and calm under pressure, especially during operational emergencies.
• Highly organised with excellent time management and task prioritisation.
• Clear communicator with the ability to influence across all levels of the organisation.
• Invests in team growth and morale through coaching and feedback.
• Proactive in risk identification and prevention.
• Open to learning and adopting new technologies and systems.
• Maintains professional conduct, ethical standards, and internal stakeholder collaboration.

Additional Requirements

• A good understanding of logistical coordination with port authorities, marine regulators, and external service providers will be beneficial.
• Willingness to respond to urgent technical issues outside of standard working hours when required.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a hands-on Maintenance Manager who thrives in a technically complex and fast-paced marine-industrial environment