ARTISAN FOREMAN GRADE A: ID CRAFT BOOKLET MAKING

This position is for an Artisan Foreman Grade A within the High Security Printing directorate of a government department, based in Pretoria. The role is central to the production of critical identity documents and passport booklets, operating within a highly controlled environment where security, precision, and adherence to strict protocols are paramount. As a foreman, the incumbent will not only be a skilled artisan but also a supervisor and coach, responsible for guiding a team of learners, artisans, and printers’ assistants while ensuring that production targets are met without compromising quality or security.

Candidates must possess a Grade 10 certificate or equivalent qualification, together with a completed apprenticeship and a Trade Test Certificate in the appropriate field, specifically craft book binding or mechanized binding. A Grade 12 qualification will be an added advantage, as will a valid driver’s licence. Crucially, applicants must be able to obtain a positive security clearance, given the sensitive nature of the documents being produced. At least five years of post-apprenticeship experience in the functional area is required, demonstrating a solid understanding of the production processes and the ability to handle the responsibilities of a supervisory role.

The duties of this post are extensive and revolve around the entire lifecycle of ID document and booklet manufacturing. The foreman must order and prepare the required materials, oversee the quality assurance of raw materials to prevent faulty production, and ensure that all stock movements are accurately recorded with shortages reported immediately. The role involves manufacturing documents and booklets according to required specifications, including accurate cutting, folding, foiling, and binding, as well as assembling documents in the correct order. Quality checking of printed matter before assembly is essential, and the foreman must control the production process to ensure efficiency, reduce wastage, and maintain the established baseline rate. Security is a constant focus: the foreman must ensure that all procedures and systems relating to the protection of high security printed matter are followed by all staff, and that work is completed according to schedules and production targets. Troubleshooting is another key responsibility, requiring the identification of root causes of production issues and the implementation of effective solutions. Additionally, the foreman is responsible for maintaining safety, health, environment, risk, and quality (SHERQ) standards in the section, monitoring safety risks, and advising on mitigating measures. Supervision and development of staff are integral, with the expectation to train, coach, and develop learners, artisans, and printers’ assistants.

This is an OSD-graded position, reflecting its technical and supervisory nature. Applicants should be prepared for a rigorous recruitment process, including personnel suitability checks such as criminal record, citizenship, credit record, qualification, and employment verification. By applying, candidates consent to the collection and processing of personal information in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and they will be required to produce certified copies of qualifications and related documents at the interview stage. The successful candidate must be ready to work in a high-security environment where attention to detail and unwavering adherence to protocol are non-negotiable.