Mechanical Fitter (Shutdowns)

Bearings, gearboxes, pumps and lathes: this sugar mill in Pietermaritzburg needs your hands on them. This is a good step for someone who wants proper routine and a manager who notices good work.

The site is in Pietermaritzburg; early starts mean public transport timing matters, so check your route before applying.

• Replace bearings, seals and couplings on pumps, gearboxes and motors
• Record work and spares used on the job card or CMMS
• Respond to breakdowns and get the line running again safely
• Program and run CNC machines from engineering drawings
• Build and repair press tools, jigs and moulds
• Align shafts with a laser alignment tool after every drive change

• You read engineering drawings and measure with micrometers and verniers
• Basic understanding of the General Machinery Regulations
• Willing to work shifts, standby and weekend shutdowns
• Own basic hand tools, or willing to build up a set
• Trade test as Fitter and Turner, Fitter, Millwright or Toolmaker
• N2 or N3 engineering subjects

• Food safety awareness for food and drink plants
• Forklift licence for moving heavy parts
• Hydraulic and pneumatic courses

• Shift and standby allowances
• Chance to study further toward a technician diploma
• Paid overtime on shutdowns

• Expect a practical test. Measure twice and work cleanly, because the assessor watches your habits as much as the result.
• Write your trade and trade test year first, then the machines you know, like "Filling lines, pumps, gearboxes".