ARTISAN PRODUCTION GRADE A-C: CARPENTRY

This position is for an Artisan Production Grade A to C specialising in carpentry, based at the Steve Biko Facility Maintenance Hub within the Maintenance directorate of the Department of Community Safety. As an OSD-graded role, the post offers a salary structure that recognises years of experience following the completion of a trade test certificate, meaning the appointment level and remuneration will be determined by the successful candidate’s proven practical experience. The role forms part of the department’s broader maintenance function, ensuring that physical facilities and equipment are safe, functional and compliant with relevant standards.

To be considered, applicants must hold an appropriate Trade Test Certificate in carpentry and have between zero and two years of relevant experience. A valid driver’s licence is also required. The department expects candidates to possess a solid working knowledge of Public Service legislation, policies and regulations, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, departmental strategies and procedures, legal compliance requirements, and computer-aided technical applications. In addition, applicants should demonstrate strong production process knowledge and skills. Key competencies include 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 skills. The ideal candidate is a reliable team player who is customer-focused and able to work effectively under pressure.

The core duties involve producing carpentry designs according to client specifications and within the limits of production capability, then manufacturing objects using appropriate materials and equipment in line with job specifications and recognised standards. The role also requires rendering quality assurance on produced items, inspecting equipment and facilities for technical faults, repairing them according to set standards, and testing repaired equipment against specifications. The artisan will service equipment and facilities on a scheduled basis and ensure that serviced and maintained items meet quality expectations. Administrative responsibilities include compiling and submitting reports, providing inputs to the operational plan, and keeping and maintaining job records or registers. In addition, the incumbent is expected to supervise and mentor staff, and to keep abreast of new technologies and procedures for continuous individual development.

This post is subject to several special conditions. Shortlisted candidates will undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise and an integrity or ethical conduct assessment, both of which will be scored as additional criteria during the interview process. Suitable candidates will also be subjected to personnel suitability checks, including vetting, criminal record, citizenship, credit record, qualification verification and employment verification. The department encourages youth, people with disabilities, and specifically coloured, Indian and white candidates to apply, with confirmation of disability required from a registered medical practitioner. Placement may be determined by corridor coordination and departmental needs, and the department reserves the right not to make an appointment or to use alternative recruitment processes. Applicants should note that applications will not be acknowledged due to the expected volume, and if no response is received within three months, the application should be considered unsuccessful.