ARTISAN PRODUCTION GRADE A – C (DIESEL MECHANICAL) REF NO: 051026/19 Branch: Infrastructure Management: Southern Operations Cd: Water Resources Infrastructure Operations and Maintenance Dir: Operations Southern

This position is for a qualified diesel mechanic artisan within the Department of Water and Infrastructure, specifically attached to the Southern Operations branch of the Water Resources Infrastructure Operations and Maintenance unit. Based at Breede/Gouritz in Worcester, Western Cape, the role is graded as an OSD Artisan Production Grade A to C and involves providing essential mechanical maintenance and repair services for the water infrastructure network. You will work on a variety of critical equipment typically found at dams and water distribution systems, including pumps, pipes, valves, sluices, auxiliary drives, cranes, and water vessels, as well as general construction equipment. This is a hands-on, production-oriented role that requires both workshop competence and the ability to work on-site, often in remote locations. The work environment demands strict adherence to legislative requirements and the Occupational Health and Safety Act, so a clear understanding of safety compliance in workshop and site settings is essential.

To be considered, you must hold an appropriate Diesel Mechanical Trade Test Certificate and disclose a valid, unexpired Code EB driver’s licence. Beyond the formal qualification, the department is looking for someone who can operate with limited supervision and take initiative. Strong technical communication skills in English are required, not only for day-to-day coordination but also for writing sound technical reports. Familiarity with computer-aided technical applications is necessary, and the ability to read and interpret manufacturing drawings will be an advantage. You must be willing to work standby and overtime, including weekends and public holidays, and be prepared to travel to remote areas with regular overnight stays away from home. A key part of the job is the ongoing management, mentoring, and evaluation of staff performance, so previous or potential supervisory capability is important.

Your main duties will centre on the service, repair, installation, and maintenance of water control and construction equipment. This includes conducting routine inspections to identify visible, operational, and safety defects, planning necessary repairs, and reporting issues to your supervisor. You will be responsible for ensuring that services are carried out timeously and for coordinating maintenance and repairs through existing contracts. Accurate record-keeping is a critical function: you must record daily trips, fuel consumption, logbooks for vehicles and machinery, and service logbooks for installed equipment. You will also be expected to maintain clean, well-kept equipment and work areas, practising good housekeeping both in the workshop and on site. Additionally, you will assist various maintenance teams with day-to-day maintenance, repairs, and construction work as needed. Preference will be given to candidates from the geographical area, reflecting the department’s commitment to local employment and community engagement. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled diesel mechanic seeking a stable, technically demanding role within the public sector, contributing directly to the reliability and safety of water infrastructure in the Western Cape.