ARTISAN PRODUCTION: PLUMBER

This vacancy is for an Artisan Production specialising in plumbing, based at the Pretoria West Facility Maintenance Hub within the Chief Directorate: Maintenance of the Department of Community Safety. The role is a production-focused artisan position, meaning the incumbent will be responsible for the full cycle of plumbing work from design and fabrication through to installation, repair, testing and ongoing maintenance of equipment and facilities. As a government post, it carries the benefits and conditions associated with public service employment, and the salary offer is determined in line with the recognised trade test certificate and the candidate’s relevant post-qualification experience. It is an ideal opportunity for a newly qualified artisan or someone with up to two years of experience who is looking to build a career in a structured maintenance environment.

To be considered, applicants must hold an appropriate Trade Test Certificate in plumbing and possess a valid driver’s licence. While only zero to two years of experience is required, the successful candidate will need to demonstrate a solid understanding of Public Service legislation, policies and regulations, as well as the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Knowledge of departmental policies, strategies and procedures, legal compliance, and computer-aided technical applications is also essential. The role demands strong technical report writing, problem-solving, analytical and decision-making skills, together with creativity, teamwork, self-management, communication, computer literacy, and planning and organising abilities. The ideal candidate is a reliable, customer-focused team player who can work independently and mentor others.

The main duties are varied and hands-on. The artisan will produce designs according to client specifications and within the limits of the production capability, then create objects using the appropriate materials and equipment in line with job specifications and recognised standards. Quality assurance is a key part of the work, covering both newly produced items and serviced or maintained equipment and facilities. The role also involves inspecting equipment and facilities for technical faults, carrying out repairs according to set standards, testing repaired items against specifications, and servicing equipment on a scheduled basis. Administrative responsibilities include compiling and submitting reports, providing inputs to the operational plan, and keeping and maintaining a job record or register. The position also includes supervisory duties, such as overseeing and mentoring staff, and the artisan is expected to keep up with new technologies and procedures for continuous professional development.

Shortlisted candidates should be aware that the selection process includes pre-entry assessments, namely a practical exercise and an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment, both of which are scored as additional criteria during interviews. A personnel suitability check will also be conducted, covering vetting, criminal records, citizenship, credit records, qualification verification and employment verification. The department encourages youth, people with disabilities, Coloured, Indian and White applicants to apply, and applicants with disabilities must attach a confirmation certificate from a registered medical practitioner. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by an evaluation certificate from the South African Qualifications Authority. Only shortlisted candidates will need to submit certified copies of qualifications, and the department reserves the right not to make an appointment.