Senior Instrument Maker P001666 & P001231

North West University; Potchefstroom; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 450 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading academic institution in Potchefstroom seeks an experienced Senior Instrument Maker responsible for designing, manufacturing, and repairing scientific instruments. Candidates should possess a National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering and have at least two years of relevant experience. Proficiency in CAD/CAM software, along with strong self-management skills, is essential. This role emphasizes creativity and teamwork within a diverse environment.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in designing and manufacturing research equipment from first principles including CAD / CAM.
• 2+ years of experience in design and layout of mechanical components.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture and repair equipment for research and educational activities.
• Design and draw equipment using 3D design software.
• Maintain workshop equipment and materials.
• Keep accurate time sheets and job cards for project tracking.

Skills

Design and manufacture of systems

Glass Blowing

CAD experience

CAM experience

Advanced hand skills

CNC Programming skills

Basic welding skills

Education

National Diploma (NQF level 6) in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Inventor

Solidworks

Job description

Job title: Senior Instrument Maker P001666 & P001231

Job Location: North West, Potchefstroom

Deadline: November 10, 2025

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Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

• Specialist Academic Support Service. Design, manufacture and repair of scientific and educational instruments and apparatus of the University.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Manufacture and Repair

• Responsible for professional manufacture and repair of equipment that is needed by personnel and departments of the University involved in research and educational activities by means of specialized machines and equipment and various materials.


• Redesign and manufacturing to update and adapt equipment to better suit changing requirements of researchers and educators.

Drawing and Design

• Responsible for, through consultation with senior personnel, group managers and other responsible persons, design and drawing of equipment to enable the accurate and repetitive manufacture of equipment. This is done with the use of 3D design computer software.

Maintenance and Service Of Workshop Equipment

• Responsible for proper use and care of machines and equipment in the workshop.


• Proper use of material and other stock used in manufacturing of equipment including care and stock control of material in store to ensure that the department can be run properly and be always neat.

Documentation and Administration

• Responsible for keeping accurate time sheets and job cards to enable management to keep track of all costs and time spend on each project to enable the financial officer to produce accurate invoices and to see how much time is spend on each subdivision of work, including admin and maintenance.

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)

Minimum requirements

• A National Diploma (NQF level 6) in Mechanical Engineering.


• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in designing and manufacturing research equipment from first principles including CAD / CAM.


• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in the design and layout of mechanical components related for research equipment.

KEY FUNCTIONAL / TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES

• Design and manufacture of systems, Glass Blowing.


• CAD experience, CAM experience, (Inventor or Solidworks).


• Advanced hand skills


• CNC Programming skills


• Basic welding skills.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES

• Excellent self-management and time keeping skills. Ability to work without constant supervision.


• Self-motivated with excellent self-discipline, drive to succeed. Must be neat and proud of work delivered.


• Professional behaviour habits with a broad range of clients, show creativity and initiative and original ideas.


• Work well with diverse groups and teams, with excellent communication skills.

Apply by : 2 November 2025