ARTISAN FOREMAN GRADE A: ID SMART CARD PERSONALISATION WORKSTATION

This position is for an Artisan Foreman Grade A within the High Security Printing directorate of a South African government department, based in Pretoria. The core purpose of the role is to oversee the smart ID card personalisation workstation, ensuring the secure and accurate production of personalised smart ID documents. The incumbent will be responsible for managing the entire production flow, from card layout and data input through to printing and encoding, while maintaining strict quality control and security protocols. This is a supervisory role within a high-security environment, requiring a strong understanding of production processes, equipment, and the protection of sensitive printed materials.

To be considered, applicants must have a Grade 10 certificate or equivalent, along with a completed apprenticeship and a Trade Test Certificate in an appropriate field. A Grade 12 qualification will be an added advantage. Candidates need at least five years of post-apprenticeship experience in the relevant functional area. A valid driver's licence is also advantageous. Crucially, the successful candidate must be able to obtain a positive security clearance, as the work involves handling high-security documents. The role demands flexibility, as the incumbent must be willing and able to work rotating shifts, including weekends, public holidays, and night shifts.

The duties are wide-ranging and centre on production supervision and quality assurance. The foreman will monitor and control the movement of work in progress, ensuring that production meets required schedules in terms of timelines and quantities. A key responsibility is conducting and monitoring proper quality control on personalised documents, while also controlling wastage and maintaining efficiency baseline rates. The role requires troubleshooting problems in the personalisation process, identifying root causes, and assisting with implementing solutions. The foreman must also ensure that cleaning and maintenance of equipment are performed as scheduled, and that safety, health, environment, risk, and quality (SHERQ) standards are upheld. This includes monitoring safety risks and advising on mitigation measures. Staff supervision and development are central, including allocating tasks to artisans and printers’ assistants, and developing apprentices. The role also involves ensuring compliance with Treasury and GPW prescripts regarding procurement, and participating in the review and implementation of production procedures and policies.

This is an OSD-graded position, and the successful candidate will be expected to adhere to strict security and procedural requirements. As part of the application process, shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, including criminal record, citizenship, credit record, qualification, and employment verification. By applying, candidates consent to the processing of their personal information in line with POPIA. The department reserves the right not to make any appointment. This role is ideal for a seasoned artisan with supervisory experience who thrives in a structured, security-conscious production environment.