ARTISAN FOREMAN: EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE ELECTRICAL

This position is for an Artisan Foreman specialising in electrical equipment maintenance within the Engineering directorate of Government Printing Works, based in Pretoria. The role is an OSD-graded post that combines hands-on technical expertise with supervisory and administrative responsibilities. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring that all plant equipment is maintained and repaired to the highest standards, supporting the broader manufacturing and production objectives of the organisation. Working within a structured engineering environment, the foreman will lead a team of artisans and technicians, coordinate maintenance schedules, and liaise with factory managers and planning divisions to keep operations running smoothly.

Applicants must hold a Grade 10 certificate or equivalent qualification, together with a completed apprenticeship and a Trade Test Certificate in Electrical as a trade tested electrician. A Grade 12 qualification will be an added advantage. At least five years of post-apprenticeship experience in equipment and service maintenance is required, along with the ability to obtain a positive security clearance. The role demands sound knowledge of applicable processes and equipment, as well as a thorough understanding of the human resources legislative framework, including the Public Service Act, Public Service Regulations, Labour Relations Act, Safety, Health, Environment and Quality management requirements, and the Skills Development Act. A valid driver’s licence is also essential.

The core duties involve ensuring effective and efficient maintenance and repair of all equipment. This includes analysing equipment specifications and capacity data, performing mathematical calculations to determine Reliability Centered Maintenance schedules, and supporting established manufacturing sequences and lead times. The foreman must monitor the timely issuing of maintenance plans to factory managers, escalate and expedite operations that delay schedules, and collaborate with the Maintenance Planning, Scheduling and Monitoring Division to adjust plans when unforeseen circumstances arise. Regular inspections of equipment are required to identify potential issues, malfunctions or safety hazards, and preventative maintenance programmes must be established and executed to ensure ongoing reliability and longevity. Quality assurance is a key responsibility, with the foreman conferring with department supervisors to assess the status and quality of scheduled maintenance, preparing detailed maintenance and repair reports, and assisting in developing programmes to improve Mean Time To Repair and Mean Time Between Failure. The role also requires active participation in Safety, Health, Environment, Risk and Quality activities, ensuring compliance with OHSA requirements, monitoring and mitigating plant-related safety risks, and adhering to all SHERQ processes. Supervisory duties include monitoring training programmes, conducting performance assessments, managing attendance, leave and discipline in line with HR prescripts, and contributing to the development, review and implementation of policies and procedures. The foreman is also expected to keep abreast of new developments in the functional area.

This is a demanding position that requires a blend of technical skill, leadership ability and administrative rigour. Candidates should be prepared to work within a government entity that places a strong emphasis on compliance, safety and continuous improvement. Shortlisted applicants will be required to undergo further vetting and provide certified documents as part of the selection process. The role offers an opportunity to contribute to the effective functioning of a key state-owned printing operation while leading a team of maintenance professionals.