CONTROL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGIST GRADE A REF NO: 301026/10 Branch: Infrastructure Management: Eastern Operations Cd: Water Resource Infrastructure Operations and Maintenance Dir: Operations Eastern

This vacancy is for a senior Control Engineering Technologist, Grade A, based at Midmar Dam within the Department of Water and Sanitation’s Infrastructure Management branch, specifically the Eastern Operations cluster. The position sits in the Water Resource Infrastructure Operations and Maintenance directorate and operates from the cluster office’s Technical Services sub-directorate. As one of the senior technical roles in the cluster, the incumbent will support Area Offices by managing water infrastructure operations and maintenance work streams, working alongside a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, technologists, technicians, artisans, and field maintenance personnel. The role demands strong leadership, as the successful candidate will be expected to mentor junior technical staff and graduate interns, while also driving safety compliance in line with statutory and regulatory requirements.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Technology in Mechanical Engineering recognised by SAQA, along with compulsory registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa as a Professional Engineering Technologist. A minimum of six years of post-qualification experience as an engineering technologist or technician is required. Practical experience must include infrastructure condition assessment, project management, design and analysis of water-related infrastructure, preparation of procurement documentation, and site supervision of construction works. Proven experience mentoring graduate interns and facilitating training is also essential. Knowledge of SAP works management, contract administration, public sector procurement processes, financial planning, and applicable legislation such as the National Water Act, Water Services Act, environmental legislation, and the Public Finance Management Act will be expected. Familiarity with standard forms of contract used in infrastructure projects, strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, and excellent verbal and written communication skills are all required. A valid unexpired driver’s licence is necessary, except for persons with disabilities, and the role involves extensive travel across KwaZulu-Natal and other provinces, as well as willingness to work outside normal hours.

The core duties include managing water infrastructure operations and maintenance work streams, ensuring quality assurance of technical designs, and authorising or recommending approvals. The technologist will undertake condition assessments of infrastructure, update relevant databases, and produce detailed reports. Other responsibilities include maintaining infrastructure assets, managing administrative and human resources functions, contributing to budgeting and operational plans, and compiling reports. The post also requires participation in cluster committees such as OHS, disposal, bid, and management committees, as well as attending to risk and disaster management matters. Continuous professional development, research into new technologies, and liaison with relevant engineering bodies are integral to the role.

Shortlisted candidates will undergo suitability checks, including SAQA verification, reference, criminal, and credit checks. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate when shortlisted. Candidates may also be required to complete a financial disclosure form and undergo security clearance, while foreign nationals or dual citizenship holders must provide a police clearance certificate from their country of origin. This is an OSD-graded position with an all-inclusive salary package, and applications are submitted online as per the advertised process.