Uitenhage: Maintenance Department Manager

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Maintenance Department Manager to lead and oversee all maintenance operations within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring maximum equipment reliability, minimising downtime, improving maintenance processes, and managing a skilled maintenance team to support continuous production. Key Responsibilities Lead and manage the maintenance department, including mechanical, electrical, and maintenance personnel. Develop, implement, and monitor preventative and predictive maintenance programmes. Ensure all production equipment and machinery operate safely, efficiently, and reliably. Respond to equipment breakdowns and coordinate timely repairs to minimise production downtime. Plan and manage maintenance schedules to maximise plant availability. Monitor maintenance performance through KPIs and implement continuous improvement initiatives. Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards. Manage maintenance budgets, spare parts inventory, and procurement of maintenance materials. Liaise with production, engineering, and management teams to coordinate maintenance activities. Supervise contractors and external service providers where required. Conduct root cause analysis on equipment failures and implement corrective actions. Maintain accurate maintenance records, reports, and documentation. Identify opportunities to improve plant efficiency, equipment reliability, and operational performance. Drive a culture of preventative maintenance, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Minimum Requirements National Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field. Trade Test qualification (Mechanical or Electrical) will be advantageous. Minimum 810 years’ maintenance experience within a manufacturing or industrial environment. At least 35 years’ experience in a maintenance management or supervisory role. Strong knowledge of preventative and predictive maintenance principles. Experience working with automated manufacturing equipment, production machinery, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems. Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and Computerised Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS). Valid driver’s licence. Knowledge & Skills Strong leadership and people management skills. Excellent fault-finding and problem-solving abilities. Sound understanding of mechanical and electrical maintenance. Knowledge of PLC-controlled equipment and automation systems. Budget management and cost control experience. Strong planning, scheduling, and organisational skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work under pressure and meet production deadlines. Strong analytical and decision-making abilities. Commitment to workplace safety and quality standards. Personal Attributes Results-driven and proactive. Strong leadership and mentoring ability. Highly organised with excellent attention to detail. Hands-on approach to maintenance management. Ability to motivate and develop teams. Adaptable and able to perform effectively in a dynamic manufacturing environment. High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism. Advantageous Experience within a composites, plastics, chemical, automotive, or continuous manufacturing environment. Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, TPM (Total Productive Maintenance), or Continuous Improvement methodologies. Experience managing maintenance projects, plant upgrades, and equipment installations. What We Offer Competitive contract remuneration. Opportunity to work in a technologically advanced manufacturing environment. Exposure to modern automated production systems. A challenging role focused on operational excellence and continuous improvement.