South Africa: Game Lodge Mechanic – Sj265 posted by HotelJobs

Safari JOBS is recruiting for a Mechanic to join the pre-opening team of a renowned game lodge, scheduled to open in late 2026, in a spectacular wilderness area of Limpopo. While the lodge will only open in late 2026, the successful candidate is required to start as soon as possible to support pre-opening operations. This is a full-time opportunity to become a key member of a high-performing operations team within one of South Africas most scenic and well-established private game areas. We are seeking a candidate with a strong mechanical background, capable of servicing and repairing a wide range of lodge vehicles and mechanical equipment, including 4×4 game drive and farm vehicles, tractors, TLBs, hydraulic systems, generators, chainsaws, brush cutters, firefighting equipment, pumps etc. Solid experience (+5 years) with petrol and diesel engines, as well as small-engine maintenance, is a must. Vehicles and equipment must not only run well but also be presentable for guests polished wood, clean canvas, and tidy finishes are expected from the mechanical department. As the lodge is not yet fully operational, the current workload is approximately 40 – 50% of what it will be in late 2026 onwards. A critical aspect of the role includes – ??????????? ???? ??????? ????? ??????????? ???? ???? ?????????? ??????? ??? ???????? ??? ????????? ???? ??? ??????? ???? ??? ????? ???????????, ???????? ?????, ???? ????????, ????? ??????? ???????, ??? ????? ???????? ?? ???????? ????????. One should see the opportunity to grow with the operation. Basic written reporting and admin skills (including stock for department) are required to ensure an effective workflow within the department. As one of the right hands to the Maintenance Manager, you will need the ability to work independently, lead by example, and collaborate closely with the maintenance and operations teams. The successful candidate must be confident and capable of stepping into broader lodge operational tasks when required, demonstrating initiative, adaptability, and a proactive, solutions-driven approach. This is a physically demanding position that requires reliability, maturity, strong work ethic, and a calm, practical mind-set in a busy, dynamic setting. ??????? ???????????? ??? ???????????? Clear criminal record; Excellent English communication skills, both written and verbal; Excellent employment track record references will be checked; Basic computer literacy/experience; Valid / relevant drivers licence; Currently in possession of preferably a 4×4, or at least 2×4 vehicle; Automotive / Diesel Mechanic Trade Test (Red Seal) ?? recognised NQF Level 4+ qualification in mechanical or automotive repair (??????????); Solid experience with petrol and diesel engines, as well as small-engine maintenance (??????????); Existing experience in an upmarket lodge / remote maintenance environment; Must understand 5* lodge operational standards; Experience in training others in basic vehicle checks and safe equipment use; ????????? ???????? Experience in handling and maintaining chainsaws, brush cutters, and small engines; Additional training in small engine maintenance, agricultural machinery, or welding; Experience in operating Tractors & / TLBs / front-end loaders; Welding, hydraulic, or light electrical skills; Firefighting training or firebreak-cutting experience; Familiarity with solar or off-grid systems. ?????????? ?????? A strong leader that is able to effectively manage and lead a team; Professional work ethic, a progressive mind-set, must demonstrate responsible personal habits (no excessive alcohol consumption), mature and accountable to manage your own personal logistics responsibilities; Willingness to work flexible hours and live onsite in a remote lodge setting. ???????? ?????? & ????????????: Proficiency in servicing and repairing petrol & diesel engines, 4×4 drivetrains, and manual transmissions; Must also have strong working knowledge of TLB operation and hydraulic system diagnostics and repairs; Strong diagnostic skills and preventative maintenance planning in both short-term and long term written plans; Skilled in servicing and repairing lodge mechanical equipment including generators, chainsaws, brush cutters, and pumps; Ability to improvise and perform field repairs in remote conditions; Knowledge of bush workshop practices and sourcing parts; Ability to integrate into broader lodge projects once mechanical work is completed; Leadership and communication skills ability to coordinate with other departments and maintain workflow when delegated; Experience in high-end lodge environments where presentation, discretion, and efficiency are essential; High level of practical problem-solving and ability to work independently; Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with suppliers and initiate the procurement of all stock required proactively. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Service; maintain, and repair all lodge vehicles including 4×4 game drive vehicles, tractors, TLBs, and utility vehicles; Service and repair lodge mechanical equipment including chainsaws, brush cutters, generators, pumps, and small engines – this includes hydraulic systems maintenance and troubleshooting. Conduct preventative maintenance and respond promptly to breakdowns, including field repairs during game drives; Maintain accurate records of all mechanical work; Maintain workshop areas in excellent condition, ensuring safety compliance; Once mechanical work is complete, assist with other priority lodge projects such as: road grading and maintenance; fence repair and maintenance; building and structural upkeep; bush clearing and alien species removal; seasonal tasks including firebreak preparation and erosion control; Communicate clearly and respectfully with team members, management, and other departments. ???????????? / ??????? / ???? ????? Very negotiable – advise your minimum gross salary expectation upon application; Split of pooled monthly gratuities once lodge becomes operational; Accommodation: Own private room and bathroom; Uniform; Utilities including water, electricity and Wi-Fi; Please note that the following are not included in the employment package and remain the responsibility of the employee: laundry, medical aid, provident fund, and other personal expenses. Meals – Currently meals are provided as a basic, simple offering. A dedicated staff chef will be in place once the property is fully operational. Work/leave cycle: 7 consecutive days off per month, plus 15 leave days per annum. ????? ?? ???? Must have access to Zoom for the initial interview; Must be willing to potentially complete a character and personality assessment during the interview stage; Must be willing to potentially undergo a polygraph examination prior to final appointment. ?? ?? ????? ???: You MUST be in possession of a valid passport & existing work permit for RSA APPLICATION PROCESS Please submit your ??-??-???? ???? ??, head-and-shoulders photo (??????), relevant qualifications/certificates, written reference letters (if available), and contactable references for your ???? ? positions. We sincerely value every application submitted. While only shortlisted candidates who meet the role requirements will be contacted, you are most welcome to follow our advertising & social media platforms for future opportunities that may better align with your profile.