ENGINEER TECHNICIAN (DESIGN AND MATERIAL)

This position offers an opportunity for a qualified engineering professional to contribute to the planning and execution of road infrastructure projects within the Mpumalanga provincial government. Based at the Head Office, the Engineer Technician (Design and Material) operates within the public sector roads maintenance environment, focusing on the technical and material aspects of road design, maintenance, and refurbishment. The role is central to ensuring that road projects are delivered to the correct standards, using appropriate materials and treatment methods, while also supporting broader infrastructure reporting and budgeting processes. It is an OSD-graded post, reflecting a structured career path for engineering technicians in the public service.

Applicants must hold a Grade 12 certificate and a three-year National Diploma in Engineering at NQF Level 6, as recognised by SAQA. Compulsory registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) as a Professional Engineering Technician is required. A valid driver’s licence and proficiency in computer applications are essential, along with relevant work experience in the design and material environment. The ideal candidate will have sound knowledge of the planning, implementation, and management of roads maintenance and refurbishment projects in the public sector. Familiarity with key legislation and regulations, including the PFMA, the CIDB Act, and the Occupational Health and Safety Act, is expected. Experience with contract documentation, procurement processes, and administration using frameworks such as JBCC or GCC is also necessary. A good understanding of the roads maintenance environment, life cycle costing, and facilities maintenance management systems is important, as is proficiency in engineering software such as Civil Designer, Prokon, and AutoCAD. Advanced MS Office skills and the ability to use project tracking tools are required, alongside strong written and verbal communication, negotiation, planning, and organisational abilities. The role also demands the capacity to manage contractors and service providers on site and to coordinate multiple maintenance teams effectively.

The core duties involve coordinating the design of materials, pavements, and methods of treatment, as well as providing standards and specifications for materials and their treatment. The incumbent will prescribe testing methods and execute quality control on materials and processes, ensuring compliance with technical requirements. Coordinating technical measurements and preparing technical and performance reports are key responsibilities. The position also assists in budgeting processes and contributes to infrastructure reporting to oversight bodies, making the role both technically and administratively demanding.

Shortlisted candidates should be prepared for a rigorous selection process. This may include a practical exercise to assess technical and generic suitability, as well as an integrity assessment. The top candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, including criminal record, citizenship, financial assets, qualifications, and employment background verification. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA, and proof of evaluation is required if shortlisted. Candidates must also disclose any business interests with the state or additional remunerative work. The successful appointee will enter into an annual performance agreement and disclose financial interests annually. The department reserves the right not to fill the post, and only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. If no response is received within three months of the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful. This role is well suited to a detail-oriented engineering technician who thrives in a structured public sector environment and is committed to maintaining high standards in road infrastructure delivery.