Senior Diesel Mechanic at NRF National Research Foundation

National Research Foundation; Carnarvon; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company focusing on astronomical initiatives in South Africa seeks a Workshop Team Leader to oversee fleet management and maintenance. The successful candidate will be responsible for implementing cost-effective strategies and ensuring operational readiness of vehicles and plants. The role demands technical expertise and extensive practical knowledge, aiming to enhance local capacity through training and knowledge transfer.

Qualifications

• 10 years in civil plant and fleet management.
• Valid motor vehicle license – Code B, preferred Code 14.
• Experience with maintenance of minibuses and lifting equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the workshop team to maximize vehicle availability.
• Develop maintenance strategies for fleet.
• Inspect and maintain vehicles and generators.

Skills

Technical knowledge

Problem solving

Practical skills

Education

Grade 12 / Senior Certificate / National Certificate / Vocational 4 / N3, N4, N5 / NQF 4

Tools

Hydraulic systems

Diagnostic applications

Job description

Position Summary:
To lead and develop the workshop team, driving the operational readiness of the company's fleet. You will be responsible for maximizing vehicle and plant availability and utilization by implementing safe, cost-effective maintenance strategies that meet and exceed rigorous technical standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Inspect and maintain existing vehicles & plants by applying technical and practical solutions.
• Inspect and maintain generators (power plants) using technical knowledge, skills, and experience.
• Inspect and maintain trucks & mounted cranes with technical expertise.
• Service mechanical equipment applying technical knowledge, skills, and experience.
• Ensure RFI compliance and awareness.
• Communicate effectively with visitors, SARAO staff, NRF, DST officials, and international SKA staff.
• Engage in self-development to stay abreast of technical developments.
• Transfer knowledge to relevant stakeholders.
• Upskill local students through in-house practical training.
• Develop, prepare, and present recommendations on plant mechanical issues related to short- and medium-term challenges.
• Resolve fleet mechanical issues promptly using technical skills.
• Ensure all work on fleet machinery is of high standard.
• Work safely and cooperatively with colleagues and the public.
• Adhere to safety standards and procedures.
• Handle auto-electrical problems and plan practical solutions given isolation.
• Compile RFO and RFQ documents with technical and costing info.
• Initiate procurement processes for spares and components.
• Work efficiently within budget constraints.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Grade 12 / Senior Certificate / National Certificate / Vocational 4 / N3, N4, N5 / NQF 4

Minimum Experience:

• 10 years in civil plant and fleet management, maintenance of minibuses/bakkies.
• Experience with hydraulic systems and lifting equipment.
• Valid motor vehicle license – Code B (eligible for a Professional Driving Permit).
• EC (Code 14) license preferred.

Knowledge:

• Welding/boilermaking, small plant maintenance, toolmaking/design, computer diagnostic applications, brand-specific knowledge.

The NRF website provides more details. Applicants should submit a CV, motivation letter, and contact details of referees via the NRF Recruitment Portal.

Desired Skills:

• Practical skills relevant to the position.
• Relevant knowledge base.
• Responsibility in duty performance.

About The Employer:

The NRF supports research and human capital development through funding, partnerships, and public engagement. SARAO manages South Africa's activities in the SKA project, including the MeerKAT telescope and other radio astronomy initiatives.