ARTISAN PRODUCTION GRADE A-C: MECHANICAL

This position is for an Artisan Production Grade A to C specialising in mechanical work, based at the Heidelberg Facility Maintenance Hub under the Maintenance directorate of the Department of Community Safety. The role operates within an OSD-graded structure, and the salary offer is determined by recognising experience gained after obtaining a trade test certificate; shortlisted candidates must provide proof of such experience. The artisan is expected to support the department by ensuring that its physical facilities and equipment are safe, functional and well maintained, in line with government standards and legislative requirements.

Candidates must hold an appropriate Trade Test Certificate and have between zero and two years of relevant experience, as well as a valid driver's licence. The department requires knowledge of public service legislation, policies and regulations, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, departmental policies and strategies, legal compliance, and production processes. Familiarity with computer-aided technical applications is also essential. In terms of skills, the ideal candidate should demonstrate technical report writing, problem-solving and analysis, decision-making, teamwork, creativity, analytical thinking, self-management, communication and computer literacy, as well as planning and organising abilities. The personal attributes sought include being a team player, customer-focused and reliable.

The duties are broad and hands-on. The artisan will produce designs according to client specifications and within production capability, then manufacture objects using materials and equipment in line with job specifications and recognised standards. Quality assurance forms a key part of the work, both for newly produced items and for serviced or maintained equipment and facilities. The incumbent will inspect equipment and facilities for technical faults, carry out repairs, test repaired items against specifications, and service equipment according to schedule. Administrative responsibilities include compiling and submitting reports, contributing inputs to the operational plan, and maintaining job records or registers. The role also involves supervising and mentoring staff, so leadership and communication skills are important. In addition, the artisan is expected to stay current with new technologies and procedures for continuous professional development.

This post carries several notable conditions. The selection process for shortlisted candidates includes two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise and an integrity or ethical conduct assessment, with scores used as an additional criterion during interviews. Suitable candidates will also undergo personnel suitability checks, including vetting, criminal record, citizenship, credit record, qualification verification and employment verification. The department reserves the right not to appoint and may use alternative recruitment processes. The Department of Community Safety encourages youth, people with disabilities, and candidates from designated groups including coloured, Indian and white applicants to apply; a confirmation of disability from a registered medical practitioner must accompany applications from persons with disabilities. Due to the anticipated volume of applications, no acknowledgement will be sent, and candidates who do not receive feedback within three months of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. Applicants must also ensure their submissions comply with the document requirements, including a fully completed and signed application form and a comprehensive CV, with certified copies of qualifications required only from shortlisted candidates; foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate.