Mechanical Maintenance Foreman

3L Consulting; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading FMCG manufacturing company is seeking a Mechanical Maintenance Foreman in Spartan, Kempton Park, Gauteng. This role focuses on maximizing equipment availability, leading maintenance teams, and enforcing high-quality standards. The ideal candidate should have over 10 years of supervisory experience in heavy engineering, possess a Mechanical Trade Test, and have a strong understanding of maintenance strategies. Opportunities for professional growth and advantageous exposure to advanced automation systems are also provided.

Benefits

Monthly Total Cost to Company Package (TCTC): R80,000

Opportunities for professional growth

Exposure to advanced automation

Qualifications

• Matric (Grade 12) certification required.
• Over 10 years of maintenance supervisory experience in heavy engineering.
• Strong understanding of WCM tools, processes, and systems.

Responsibilities

• Maximise equipment availability and minimise downtime.
• Lead mechanical maintenance teams effectively.
• Plan and execute breakdown repairs promptly.

Skills

Analytical ability

Problem-solving mindset

Leadership skills

Knowledge of OHS Act

WCM tools and processes

Education

Mechanical Trade Test

National Diploma or B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Join to apply for the Mechanical Maintenance Foreman role at 3L Consulting. Sector: FMCG manufacturing sector. Location: Spartan, Kempton Park, Gauteng. Reports To: Mechanical Engineer.

About the Client: Our client is a well-established FMCG manufacturing business with a strong presence in South Africa. Operating a high-volume production facility, they are known for their commitment to product quality, operational efficiency, and continuous innovation. With a reputation for delivering trusted consumer products to major retailers and wholesalers, the organisation prides itself on maintaining high standards of safety, compliance, and engineering excellence.

Purpose of the Role: The Mechanical Maintenance Foreman is responsible for maximising equipment availability, minimising downtime and extending the operating life of machinery at the Jumbo Centre factory. The role provides strong leadership to mechanical maintenance teams, ensures effective execution of maintenance plans and shutdowns, drives proactive maintenance strategies, and enforces world‑class engineering standards, safety compliance and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Delivery:

• Attend daily operations meetings and collaborate with production teams to secure the 24‑hour operating window.
• Plan and execute all breakdown repairs promptly.
• Identify causes of equipment failures and complete RCFA documentation for all mechanical failures.
• Implement corrective actions with plant engineers.
• Drive proactive maintenance by implementing preventive and predictive maintenance programmes.
• Develop, review and agree the weekly maintenance plan with the Maintenance Planner; ensure effective execution.
• Plan, prepare and oversee monthly maintenance shutdowns, ensuring no overruns.
• Reduce MTTR and increase MTBF through maintenance best practices.
• Conduct daily admin tasks and complete weekly/monthly reports.
• Perform standby duties and assist with after‑hours breakdowns.

Quality:

• Ensure zero maintenance rework by enforcing high‑quality standards for internal and external maintenance work.
• Review and maintain task lists and PM schedules.
• Develop work instructions and standardise maintenance processes and spares requirements.

Cost Management:

• Control maintenance costs and prevent over‑expenditure.
• Identify and ensure availability of critical spares.
• Liaise with stores regarding spares holdings and stock levels.
• Present maintenance team performance visually (costs, productivity, effectiveness).

Health, Safety & Environment:

• Participate in site safety programmes and conduct toolbox talks and inspections.
• Ensure all maintenance work is carried out safely and to statutory standards.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards using 5S principles.

People Management:

• Supervise mechanical maintenance personnel with strong leadership, guidance and discipline.
• Coach, train and develop artisans.
• Maintain open communication through daily meetings.
• Conduct bi‑annual performance appraisals.
• Enforce WCM principles and use WCM tools daily.
• Maintain high time‑management standards.

Requirements

Experience & Qualifications

• Matric (Grade 12).
• Mechanical Trade Test (essential).
• National Diploma or B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering (advantageous).
• 10+ years' maintenance supervisory experience in heavy engineering / continuous manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of WCM tools, processes and systems.
• Proven troubleshooting ability in high‑pressure environments.
• Knowledge of OHS Act, BCEA, LRA and relevant legislation.
• Valid driver's licence and own reliable transport.

Knowledge, Skills & Attributes

• Energetic, self‑driven and highly motivated.
• Strong analytical ability and problem‑solving mindset.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• High integrity, decisive and calm under pressure.
• Able to delegate effectively and empower subordinates.
• Neat, organised and structured.
• Willing to work outside normal hours and perform standby duties.

Benefits

• Monthly Total Cost to Company Package (TCTC): R80,******.
• Opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic FMCG manufacturing environment.
• Exposure to advanced automation and engineering systems.

Seniorities: Mid‑Senior level. Employment type: Full‑time. Job Function and Industries: Manufacturing, Paper and Forest Product Manufacturing.