Maintenance and Production Officer

SUMMARY:
Maintenance and Production Officer required for our food manufacturing Client to be based in Empangeni, KZN.  Candidates must present with a relevant trade test and approximately 3 to 5 years' experience within an industrial / agricultural processing or manufacturing environment.  The role is ideal for a qualified artisan who enjoys working in a dynamic production environment and can balance maintenance priorities with operational requirements.

POSITION INFO:
About the Position:
We are seeking a hands-on, self-motivated Maintenance and Production Officer to join our Client’s Receiving and Food Drying Depot team at Empangeni. The successful candidate will primarily be responsible for the maintenance and reliability of all depot equipment and infrastructure while also assisting the Depot Manager in overseeing daily production operations.
This role is ideal for a qualified artisan who enjoys working in a dynamic production environment and can balance maintenance priorities with operational requirements.
 
Key Responsibilities:

• Perform day-to-day preventative and breakdown maintenance on processing and drying equipment.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical failures to minimise downtime.
• Plan and execute maintenance schedules and inspections.
• Coordinate and oversee maintenance projects, equipment installations and upgrades.
• Manage workshop activities and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Maintain maintenance records and stock control of critical spare parts.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance equipment reliability and efficiency.
• Production support.
• Assist the Depot Manager with supervision of receiving, drying and production activities.
• Monitor production processes to ensure optimal throughput and product quality.
• Support production planning and workflow coordination.
• Ensure adherence to operational procedures, quality standards and safety requirements.
• Assist in supervising and developing production staff.

• Qualified Artisan with a recognised trade qualification, preferably:
  • Boilermaker / Fitter / Fitter & Turner
  • Mechanical trade equivalent
• Minimum 3-5 years' experience in a maintenance role within an industrial, agricultural processing or manufacturing environment.
• Sound mechanical knowledge and fault-finding skills.
• Experience in project execution and maintenance planning.
• Computer literate with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage priorities effectively.
• Valid driver's license.

• Experience in agricultural processing, drying plants or food manufacturing.
• Exposure to conveyors, drying systems, pumps, motors, gearboxes and related equipment.
• Basic electrical troubleshooting knowledge.
• Health and safety certification