CHIEF ARTISAN GRADE A-C: ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL/BUILDING

This vacancy is for a Chief Artisan at Grade A to C levels, based at the Far East Rand District Facility Maintenance Hub under the Maintenance directorate. The post sits within the Department of Community Safety’s technical services structure and calls for an experienced artisan capable of leading electrical, mechanical and building maintenance operations. Working alongside technicians, artisans and associated support staff, the Chief Artisan is responsible for delivering technical services across field, workshop and technical office environments, while ensuring that all work aligns with statutory and regulatory requirements. The role combines hands-on technical leadership with managerial oversight, making it suitable for a seasoned professional who understands both the practical and administrative sides of infrastructure maintenance.

Candidates must hold an appropriate trade test certificate and have at least ten years of post-qualification experience as an Artisan or Artisan Foreman. Proof of recognised experience may be requested from shortlisted applicants. A valid driver’s licence is also required. Ideal applicants will demonstrate knowledge of the National Building Regulation and Building Standards Act, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the Government Immovable Asset Management Act, the Promotion of Access to Information Act, and the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act, as well as relevant municipal regulations. Strong planning and organising abilities, verbal and written communication skills, and computer literacy are essential. The role also demands teamwork, change management, financial management, customer focus and responsiveness.

The duties are broad and managerial. The Chief Artisan will manage technical services and support in conjunction with technicians and artisans, promote safety in line with legal requirements, and contribute to technical manuals, standard drawings and procedures. Quality assurance is a key responsibility, as is providing input into the budgeting process and compiling and submitting required reports. The post holder will consolidate inputs to the technical operational plan and update databases. Managing artisans and related personnel and assets is central to the job, along with developing, motivating and utilising human resources to maintain a competent knowledge base. This includes setting and monitoring performance standards, correcting deviations to achieve departmental objectives, controlling expenditure according to budget, and managing the commercial value of discipline-related activities. Continuous individual development is encouraged, including research into new technologies and liaison with relevant technical bodies and councils.

This is an OSD-graded position with benefits attached. The application process involves completing the prescribed application form and submitting a comprehensive CV, with shortlisted candidates required to produce certified copies of qualifications and other documents. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate. Shortlisted candidates will undergo pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment, as well as a personnel suitability check covering vetting, criminal record, citizenship, credit record, qualification verification and employment verification. The department encourages youth, people with disabilities, and candidates from designated groups, including coloured, Indian and white applicants, to apply; confirmation of disability from a registered medical practitioner must be attached where applicable. The department reserves the right not to fill the post, and candidates who do not receive a response within three months of the closing date should accept that their application was unsuccessful.