ARTISAN FOREMAN GRADE A (ELECTRICAL) REF NO: 131126/22 Branch: Infrastructure Management: Central Operations CD: Water Resource Infrastructure Operations and Maintenance Dir: Operations Central

This position offers an experienced electrical artisan the opportunity to step into a supervisory foreman role within the Department of Water and Sanitation’s Central Operations unit, specifically based at Jericho Dam on the Usutu River. The successful candidate will be part of the Water Resource Infrastructure Operations and Maintenance directorate, working under the broader Infrastructure Management branch. The role is an OSD-graded Artisan Foreman post, meaning it follows the Occupation Specific Dispensation career path for artisans, and it carries the responsibility of overseeing the maintenance and reliability of bulk raw water infrastructure in a strategically important water supply area.

To be considered, applicants must hold an appropriate Electrical Trade Test Certificate and have at least five years of post-qualification experience working as an artisan. A valid, unexpired driver’s licence must be disclosed as part of the application. The role demands a solid technical foundation, including knowledge of technical analysis, computer-aided applications, legal compliance, technical report writing, and process knowledge. Candidates should also bring strong problem-solving and analytical decision-making abilities, teamwork, creativity, self-management, customer focus, responsiveness, and effective verbal and written communication skills. Computer literacy, planning and organising skills, conflict management, and the ability to work independently and under pressure are essential. Familiarity with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, PMDS, and PFMA is required, as are drawing skills and the ability to read technical drawings.

The core duties revolve around the maintenance of bulk raw water infrastructure, including dams, reservoirs, departmental houses, pump stations, and pipelines, as well as associated machinery. The foreman will perform electrical maintenance and inspections of cathodic protection transformer rectifier units, inspect equipment for technical faults, and carry out repairs according to set standards. Scheduled servicing of equipment, fault diagnosis on SCADA, PLC, and telemetry systems, and ensuring quality assurance in line with specifications are all key responsibilities. The role also requires strict adherence to safety standards and regulations, implementation of planned maintenance programmes, and accurate updating of maintenance logbooks. The foreman must compile and submit reports as required, supervise and mentor staff, and pursue continuous individual development to keep pace with new technologies and procedures. The ability to work independently as well as part of a team, sometimes for long hours and under pressure, is essential.

Candidates should note that they may be required to complete a practical and theoretical test as part of the selection process. Additionally, the office is expected to transition to an SANWRI agency, which may affect future employment conditions. This is a hands-on supervisory role for a qualified electrical artisan who is ready to take on greater responsibility in maintaining critical water infrastructure.