ARTISAN PRODUCTION: PLUMBER (X1 POST)

This position is for a qualified plumber to work as an Artisan Production at St Chads Community Health Centre (CHC), operating within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health. The role is based at the Ezakheni facility and forms part of the maintenance and infrastructure team responsible for keeping the health facility and its associated primary health care clinics safe, functional and compliant with health and safety standards. As a production artisan, the incumbent will be expected to respond to both planned maintenance and emergency breakdowns, ensuring that all plumbing systems, water reticulation and sanitation infrastructure operate reliably in a busy public healthcare environment.

To be considered, applicants must have a Standard 10 or Grade 12 certificate, along with an appropriate Trade Test Certificate in plumbing as defined under the Manpower Act of 1981, as amended. A valid driver’s licence is also required. The post is suitable for someone with between zero and two years of experience as a plumber in an appropriate field, making it an entry-level opportunity for a newly qualified artisan. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety standards, basic maintenance and repair of broken pipes, and safety systems of work. They must be able to work independently and under pressure, possess good verbal and written communication skills, and understand Batho Pele principles, which are central to public service delivery.

The duties are broad and hands-on. The plumber will install, repair and maintain high-pressure and low-pressure geysers, toilets, urinals, showers, baths and other ablution facilities. They will also work on water and sewerage reticulation systems, clear blocked drains, gutters, downpipes, wastewater lines and branch lines, and take and record water supply readings daily. Maintenance of fire hose main supplies, fire hoses and fire hydrants is another key responsibility. The role requires daily reporting of faults and job progress, as well as completing job cards and time sheets in line with auditor instructions. The plumber may be required to visit primary health care clinics to perform maintenance duties, install gutters, downpipes and galvanised pipes, and compile or contribute to technical reports. They will also deputise for the Artisan Foreman when needed, participate in multi-disciplinary team rounds at the CHC and clinics, and take necessary steps to fix identified shortfalls. Overtime and standby duties are expected, as are after-hours callouts. The plumber will also supervise handymen, assist other tradesmen when requested by the maintenance supervisor, and take responsibility for in-house training and advancement of subordinates.

This is an affirmative action and equal opportunity position, with preference given to African male candidates in line with the department’s representivity goals. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability, and an integrity or ethical conduct assessment. Appointment is subject to security screening, including checks on qualifications, citizenship, credit records and previous employment. Applicants with foreign qualifications must provide a SAQA evaluation certificate. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and no S&T payments will be made for interview attendance.