South Africa: Workshop Superintendent – Mechanisation (Agricultural Machinery & Land Development) posted by Zeebra Junction Specialist Recruitment

A leading agricultural and land development company is seeking an experienced and technically skilled Workshop Superintendent Mechanisation to oversee its mechanisation maintenance operations and surveying activities within a large-scale sugar project in Uganda.

This is a mid – senior-level field-based role, ideal for a candidate with strong experience managing the maintenance of heavy agricultural equipment fleets for land preparation, and surveying, alongside team supervision and preventative maintenance planning.

This position is open to Indian Nationals ( prefered)

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and manage all land development, drainage works, and road construction activities within the project area.
• Oversee the survey of company lands, ensuring alignment with land titles and survey standards.
• Develop specifications for agricultural machinery and supervise implementation across the estate.
• Lead the development of field service systems, including satellite and mobile workshops.
• Supervise and train a technical team responsible for equipment operations and land surveys.
• Monitor and report on machinery productivity, maintenance schedules, and fuel consumption.
• Implement standard procedures for the maintenance and repair of agricultural machinery.
• Ensure accurate records of land area, planting, harvesting, and block alignment are maintained.
• Generate drainage layouts, block designs, and road alignments using software such as AutoCAD.
• Liaise with governmental agencies (e.g., NEMA, NFA) on environmental and regulatory matters.
• Enforce safety, health, and environmental procedures to maintain a safe working environment.

Technical Requirements & Experience:

Candidates must have extensive working knowledge and hands-on experience with the following equipment and systems:

• Heavy Equipment Fleet including:
  • Graders
  • Bulldozers
  • Cane Loaders
  • Forklifts
  • John Deere Boom Sprayers
  • Caterpillar, John Deere, and European-made agricultural machines
• Mechanical and Diagnostic Skills:
  • Hydraulics circuit reading and troubleshooting
  • Experience using CAT ET diagnostic tools
  • Engine and transmission overhauls
  • Preventative maintenance planning and scheduling
• Fleet Management:
  • Proven ability to handle and maintain a fleet of 100+ heavy plant equipment
  • Spare parts planning and service schedule execution
  • Budget and downtime minimisation strategies
• Team Supervision:
  • Lead and coordinate a team of 25+ staff members including technicians, operators, and field staff
  • Ground-level collaboration to train and pass on knowledge
  • Ability to foster a results-driven and safety-conscious work culture
• IT Proficiency:
  • Competency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)
  • Experience with AutoCAD or similar design and mapping tools
  • Familiarity with SAP is a strong advantage

Qualifications:

• Degree or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Automobile Engineering, or Surveying from a recognised institution.
• Minimum of 15 years’ experience in mechanical and field operations, preferably in an agricultural or heavy equipment environment.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong leadership and team coordination abilities
• Physically fit and capable of active field involvement
• Excellent communication skills, including knowledge of local languages
• High level of integrity and accountability
• Willingness to work in a rural project setting

Remuneration:

• A competitive salary package will be offered based on qualifications and experience paid Net in USD$
• Local Living allowance
• Furnished Accommodation / Housing ( Single or Family Status)
• Annual Gratuity
• NSSF contributions paid by company
• Visa and work permits paid by the company
• Transport
• Medical Cover
• Annual Leave including return Air tickets to point of origin

How to Apply:
Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit a detailed CV and cover letter outlining relevant experience and technical expertise. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Note: The recruiting company name and contact details will be shared with shortlisted applicants during the interview stage.