Mechanical Fitter

Industrial Bakeware Company (Pty) Ltd; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 250 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing firm in Cape Town seeks a Mechanical Fitter to oversee maintenance operations and ensure machinery reliability. The ideal candidate should have a Red Seal Certification, 5-8 years of experience in a similar environment, and strong leadership skills. Responsibilities include routine maintenance, team guidance, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. This hands-on position offers an opportunity to work in a fast-paced setting.

Qualifications

• 5-8 years’ experience in a manufacturing or heavy industrial environment.
• Strong working knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, and lubrication systems.
• Basic electrical knowledge under 400V.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine planned and preventive maintenance on industrial equipment and machinery.
• Supervise and coordinate day-to-day maintenance activities.
• Enforce compliance with OHSA regulations and company safety policies.

Skills

Leadership

Technical expertise

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Education

Qualified Fitter Artisan (Red Seal Certification)

Certificate in Fitting and Machining

Matric Certificate (Grade 12)

Code 8 Driver’s Licence

Job description

We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Fitter to join our team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This hands‑on position combines technical expertise with leadership responsibilities. The successful candidate will oversee maintenance operations, ensure machinery reliability, and uphold high standards of safety and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

1. Maintenance & Technical Execution

• Conduct routine planned and preventive maintenance on industrial equipment and machinery.
• Supervise and coordinate day‑to‑day maintenance activities to ensure timely and effective execution.
• Attend to mechanical and electrical breakdowns, ensuring minimal production disruption.
• Perform setup, adjustment, and repair of eccentric and hydraulic presses, combustion chambers, and other industrial machinery.
• Conduct maintenance and fault‑finding on burners, shot blasting equipment, conveyor systems, and lubrication systems.
• Carry out fitting, assembly, and welding of metal parts, tools, or sub‑assemblies.
• Replace conveyor belts, drives, pulleys, bearings, and gearboxes.
• Conduct inspections and ensure all maintenance work meets quality and safety standards.
• Execute minor electrical tasks such as replacing contactors, relays, isolators, and repairing wiring under 400V.
• Maintain accurate maintenance and repair logs.
• Assist in managing spare parts inventory and ensuring critical spares are readily available.

2. Leadership & Training

• Guide, lead, coach, and motivate the maintenance team to achieve departmental goals.
• Provide on‑the‑job training and guidance to semi‑skilled fitters and technicians.
• Ensure the maintenance team follows safety procedures, standard operating practices, and maintenance schedules.
• Identify skills gaps and recommend training or development needs.
• Monitor and evaluate staff performance, productivity, and adherence to quality standards.

3. Health, Safety & Compliance

• Enforce compliance with OHSA regulations and company safety policies.
• Conduct toolbox talks and promote a safety‑first culture.
• Ensure proper isolation of electrical, mechanical, and fuel systems during maintenance.
• Report incidents, near‑misses, and hazards promptly to the Maintenance Manager.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards and adherence to 5S lean manufacturing principles.

4. Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Provide regular reports on maintenance performance, downtime, and repairs.
• Collaborate with production teams to coordinate maintenance with minimal impact on operations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and suggest process or system enhancements.
• Participate in performance reviews, safety audits, and plant improvement discussions.

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified Fitter Artisan (Red Seal Certification)
• Certificate in Fitting and Machining
• Matric Certificate (Grade 12)
• Code 8 Driver’s Licence
• Minimum 5‑8 years’ experience in a manufacturing or heavy industrial environment
• Strong working knowledge of:
• Hydraulics, pneumatics, and lubrication systems
• Combustion chambers, ovens, and shot blasting machines
• Conveyor systems, welding, and general fitting work
• Basic electrical knowledge (under 400V) including measurement of voltage, current, and earth leakage

Core Competencies

• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Safety‑conscious with excellent attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and in a team
• Hands‑on, practical problem solver with strong technical aptitude
• Physically fit with good hand‑eye coordination
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces
• Able to work overtime, weekends, and standby when required
• Knowledge and application of 5S methodology

Performance Indicators

• Effective supervision of maintenance activities and team output
• Reduction in equipment downtime and adherence to preventive maintenance schedules
• Compliance with health and safety regulations
• Accurate maintenance documentation and reporting
• Contribution to continuous improvement and operational efficiency