Tug Master

Global Airways; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 280,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

Global Airways in Johannesburg seeks a reliable Tug Master to oversee aircraft towing, repositioning and pushback with strict adherence to safety procedures. You will perform pre-operational inspections, maintain towing equipment, and ensure compliance with aviation regulations.

The role requires valid driving permits, PrDP, radio operator licence and medical fitness, with flexibility for irregular hours including weekends. Teamwork and situational awareness are essential.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent.
• Medical fitness certificate.
• Experience operating heavy-duty vehicles or specialised towing equipment is beneficial.
• Valid Driver's Licence and Professional Driving Permit (PrDP).
• Valid Radio Operator's Licence.

Responsibilities

• Safely perform aircraft towing, repositioning, and pushback operations per procedures.
• Conduct daily pre-operational inspections of the towing tug (fuel, oil, water, tyres, systems).
• Maintain tug in a clean, safe, and serviceable condition; service at required intervals.
• Shutdown, parking and securing of towing equipment after each operation.
• Report defects or concerns to supervisor promptly.
• Maintain valid driving permits, PrDP, radio licences, medical certificates, and other required certifications.
• Adhere to aviation regulations, safety protocols and company procedures.
• Assist with additional duties to support department efficiency.
• Be flexible to work irregular hours, including weekends and public holidays as required.

Skills

Safety Awareness

Attention to Detail

Planning & Organising

Communication & Teamwork

Accountability & Reliability

Education

Grade 12 (Matric)

Medical fitness certificate

Experience operating heavy-duty vehicles beneficial

Tools

Driver's Licence (PrDP)

Radio Operator's Licence

Job description

Job Purpose

We are seeking a reliable, safety-conscious, and detail-oriented Tug Master to join our team.

The successful candidate will play an important role by ensuring the safe and efficient towing, repositioning, and pushback of aircraft. This position requires a strong commitment to aviation safety, operational efficiency, and compliance with company procedures and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely perform aircraft towing, repositioning, and pushback operations in accordance with approved company procedures and aviation safety standards.
• Conduct daily pre-operational inspections of the Aircraft Towing Tug, including fuel, oil, water levels, tyre condition, and operating systems.
• Ensure the towing tug is maintained in a clean, safe, and serviceable condition, with servicing completed at the required intervals.
• Ensure the correct shutdown, parking, and securing of towing equipment after each operation.
• Promptly identify and report equipment defects, damage, or operational concerns to the relevant supervisor.
• Maintain valid driving permits, professional driving permits, radio operator licences, medical certificates, and other required operational certifications.
• Adhere to all applicable aviation regulations, safety protocols, and company procedures relating to aircraft movements.
• Assist with additional operational duties as required to support the efficiency and effectiveness of the department.
• Remain flexible to work irregular or extended hours, including weekends and public holidays, based on operational requirements.

Requirements

• Good understanding of aircraft towing procedures, airside safety, and operational requirements.
• Basic mechanical knowledge and ability to perform routine equipment inspections.
• Strong situational awareness and ability to identify potential safety hazards.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to following established procedures.
• Clear and effective verbal and radio communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise tasks and work efficiently in a fast-paced maintenance environment.
• Strong teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently, take responsibility, and remain calm under pressure.
• Strong sense of integrity and work ethic
• An awareness of Health and Safety rules and regulations.
• South African citizen or be eligible to work in South Africa.

Qualifications & Experience

• Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent.
• Minimum 2-3 years Aircraft towing experience.
• Valid Driver's Licence and Professional Driving Permit (PrDP).
• Valid Radio Operator's Licence, including relevant training and certification.
• Valid medical fitness certificate.
• Experience operating heavy-duty vehicles or specialised towing equipment will be beneficial.

Competencies

• Safety Awareness & Regulatory Compliance - Demonstrates a strong commitment to maintaining safe working practices, following approved aircraft towing procedures, and complying with aviation regulations and company standards.
• Accuracy & Attention to Detail - Consistently performs equipment inspections, operational checks, and assigned duties with precision, ensuring potential defects, hazards, or discrepancies are identified and reported promptly.
• Planning & Organising - Effectively coordinates and prioritises assigned towing activities to support operational efficiency and departmental targets.
• Communication & Teamwork - Communicates clearly and works collaboratively with Production, Operations and other relevant personnel to ensure safe aircraft movements and the smooth execution of operational tasks.
• Accountability & Reliability - Takes ownership of assigned responsibilities, demonstrates dependability, and maintains a proactive and flexible approach to meeting operational requirements, including working under pressure and adapting to changing priorities.

Application Closure

30 October 2026