Cape Town: Mechanical Fitter posted by Industrial Bakeware

We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Fitter to join our team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This hands-on position combines technical expertise with leadership responsibilities. The successful candidate will oversee maintenance operations, ensure machinery reliability, and uphold high standards of safety and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

1. Maintenance & Technical Execution

• Conduct routine planned and preventive maintenance on industrial equipment and machinery.
• Supervise and coordinate day-to-day maintenance activities to ensure timely and effective execution.
• Attend to mechanical and electrical breakdowns, ensuring minimal production disruption.
• Perform setup, adjustment, and repair of eccentric and hydraulic presses, combustion chambers, and other industrial machinery.
• Conduct maintenance and fault-finding on burners, shot blasting equipment, conveyor systems, and lubrication systems.
• Carry out fitting, assembly, and welding of metal parts, tools, or sub-assemblies.
• Replace conveyor belts, drives, pulleys, bearings, and gearboxes.
• Conduct inspections and ensure all maintenance work meets quality and safety standards.
• Execute minor electrical tasks such as replacing contactors, relays, isolators, and repairing wiring under 400V.
• Maintain accurate maintenance and repair logs.
• Assist in managing spare parts inventory and ensuring critical spares are readily available.

2. Leadership & Training

• Guide, lead, coach, and motivate the maintenance team to achieve departmental goals.
• Provide on-the-job training and guidance to semi-skilled fitters and technicians.
• Ensure the maintenance team follows safety procedures, standard operating practices, and maintenance schedules.
• Identify skills gaps and recommend training or development needs.
• Monitor and evaluate staff performance, productivity, and adherence to quality standards.

3. Health, Safety & Compliance

• Enforce compliance with OHSA regulations and company safety policies.
• Conduct toolbox talks and promote a safety-first culture.
• Ensure proper isolation of electrical, mechanical, and fuel systems during maintenance.
• Report incidents, near-misses, and hazards promptly to the Maintenance Manager.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards and adherence to 5S lean manufacturing principles.

4. Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Provide regular reports on maintenance performance, downtime, and repairs.
• Collaborate with production teams to coordinate maintenance with minimal impact on operations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and suggest process or system enhancements.
• Participate in performance reviews, safety audits, and plant improvement discussions.

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified Fitter Artisan (Red Seal Certification)
• Certificate in Fitting and Machining
• Matric Certificate (Grade 12)
• Code 8 Drivers Licence
• Minimum 5 -8 years experience in a manufacturing or heavy industrial environment
• Strong working knowledge of:
• Hydraulics, pneumatics, and lubrication systems
• Combustion chambers, ovens, and shot blasting machines
• Conveyor systems, welding, and general fitting work
• Basic electrical knowledge (under 400V) including measurement of voltage, current, and earth leakage

Core Competencies

• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Safety-conscious with excellent attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and in a team
• Hands-on, practical problem solver with strong technical aptitude
• Physically fit with good hand-eye coordination
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces
• Able to work overtime, weekends, and standby when required
• Knowledge and application of 5S methodology

Performance Indicators

• Effective supervision of maintenance activities and team output
• Reduction in equipment downtime and adherence to preventive maintenance schedules
• Compliance with health and safety regulations
• Accurate maintenance documentation and reporting
• Contribution to continuous improvement and operational efficiency