Diesel Mechanic

Job Purpose

The Diesel Mechanic is responsible to inspect, diagnose, service, repair, and maintain diesel-powered vehicles and equipment to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation in compliance with company standards, legal regulations, and safety procedures.

Additional Information

Air Chefs SOC Ltd is a premium food solutions company with over 40 years of experience. A wholly owned subsidiary of South African Airways, we are uniquely positioned to deliver exceptional food and hospitality services across air, corporate, and event sectors. With three strategically located operational units in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, we have the capacity to produce over 50000 meals daily, serving domestic and international airlines, airport lounges, events, and corporate canteens.

• Inspect and diagnose mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues in diesel engines, vehicles, and equipment.
• Conduct diagnostic testing and interpret results to identify root causes of faults.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, battery checks, and lubrication of moving parts.
• Follow established inspection checklists and maintenance schedules.
• Conduct risk assessments before performing repair and maintenance activities.
• Repair or replace defective components such as engines, transmissions, brakes, steering mechanisms, electrical systems, and suspension components.
• Carry out both minor and major repairs on trucks, trailers, and service vehicles in line with technical specifications and manufacturer standards.
• Test and verify the functionality and safety of repaired equipment before release.
• Perform system isolation and lockout procedures as required by engineering and safety standards.
• Perform regular diagnostic tests on fleet vehicles, ensure valid license disks, and notify fleet management of renewals when due.
• Conduct preventive maintenance inspections, tyre rotations, wheel alignments, and oil changes as per schedule.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, repairs, and services performed.
• Monitor equipment performance and recommend improvements or corrective actions to ensure operational efficiency.
• Maintain workshop cleanliness and enforce housekeeping standards post-maintenance.
• Source, order, and manage spare parts and consumables as required for maintenance and repairs.
• Maintain up-to-date parts inventory records and conduct monthly stock level monitoring and reporting.
• Identify and recommend cost-saving initiatives without compromising safety or quality.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, legal regulations, and engineering standards.
• Demonstrate commitment to safe work practices; ensure correct use of PPE by self and team.
• Participate in toolbox talks, safety briefings, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate effectively with team members to diagnose faults and plan repair activities.
• Support and uphold the company’s values, teamwork culture, and leadership principles.
• Communicate repair findings, recommendations, and future service requirements to internal customers (e.g., fleet management or operations).
• Provide feedback on vehicle condition, recurring faults, and potential upgrades or replacements.

• Ability to read, interpret, and analyse technical drawings and specifications for diesel engines and injection systems.
• Strong fault-finding and troubleshooting capability using technical schematics and diagnostic tools.
• Working knowledge of electrical systems, hydraulic systems, and vehicle control circuits.
• Independent and self-motivated individual with strong initiative.
• Proactive thinker who can plan, prioritise, and execute work effectively.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and maintenance standards.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate within a team environment.

• Matric or N3 Certificate (including Mathematics, Physical Science, and English).
• Qualified Diesel Mechanic with a valid Trade Certificate from a recognised/accredited institution (Red Seal or equivalent).
• Minimum of 3–5 years post-qualification experience as a Diesel Mechanic, with traceable references.
• Proven experience in maintaining and repairing diesel-powered trucks, trailers, and/or heavy machinery.
• Demonstrated track record of successful fault diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of heavy-duty diesel equipment.
• Advanced knowledge of various diesel engine types and fuel injection systems.
• Valid Code 10 driver’s licence with Professional Driving Permit (PDP).

• Strong technical and mechanical knowledge with proven fault-finding and diagnostic ability.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and engineering drawings.
• Solid problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and commitment to quality artistry.
• Good communication, teamwork, and reporting skills.
• Self-motivated, reliable, and able to work independently under pressure.
• Physically fit and willing to work standby shifts when required.
• Strong planning, organizational, and safety awareness skills.
• Committed to reliability, continuous improvement, and high work standards.