Diesel Mechanic

SUMMARY:
Job Description
The Diesel Mechanic will be responsible for the maintenance, servicing, fault-finding and repair of diesel-powered vehicles, trucks, machinery and equipment used in the daily operations of an abattoir. The successful candidate must ensure that all vehicles and equipment operate safely, reliably and efficiently, minimising downtime and supporting the smooth running of the facility.
Key Duties and Responsibilities

1. Maintenance and Repairs

• Perform routine servicing, preventative maintenance and mechanical repairs on diesel vehicles, trucks and machinery.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical faults.
• Maintain engines, gearboxes, clutches, brakes, suspension systems and cooling systems.
• Conduct inspections to identify potential mechanical failures before breakdowns occur.
• Repair and maintain diesel-powered equipment used in abattoir operations.

1. Fleet Maintenance

• Maintain delivery trucks, transport vehicles and other diesel-powered fleet vehicles.
• Ensure vehicles are roadworthy and comply with relevant safety requirements.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip mechanical inspections where required.
• Monitor vehicle maintenance schedules, service intervals and repair histories.
• Respond to vehicle breakdowns and conduct emergency repairs when necessary.

1. Abattoir Equipment and Machinery

• Assist with the maintenance and repair of machinery and equipment used in abattoir operations, where applicable.
• Maintain equipment such as generators, compressors, pumps and other diesel-powered machinery.
• Identify mechanical issues that could disrupt production, refrigeration support systems or transportation.
• Work with production and maintenance teams to minimise operational downtime.

1. Fault-Finding and Technical Support

• Use diagnostic equipment and technical manuals to identify faults.
• Carry out engine diagnostics and component replacements.
• Identify recurring mechanical problems and recommend preventative solutions.
• Liaise with external service providers and suppliers when specialised repairs are required.

1. Workshop Management and Administration

• Maintain accurate records of vehicle servicing, repairs, inspections and maintenance costs.
• Monitor spare parts, tools and workshop consumables.
• Ensure workshop equipment and tools are maintained and stored correctly.
• Report major mechanical defects, repair requirements and safety risks to management.
• Assist with managing maintenance budgets and controlling repair costs.

1. Health, Safety and Compliance

• Follow workplace health and safety procedures.
• Ensure safe handling and storage of oils, lubricants, fuels and other workshop materials.
• Maintain a clean, organised and safe workshop.
• Comply with applicable occupational health and safety requirements and vehicle roadworthiness standards.
• Follow lockout and isolation procedures when working on machinery.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum requirements Grade 12 / Matric preferred. 14 and 8 Ton Trucks Tractors and Front-end Loaders Diesel Generators Recognised Diesel Mechanic trade qualification or relevant apprenticeship. Trade Test Certificate as a Diesel Mechanic is highly advantageous and may be required. Minimum 3-5 years' experience as a Diesel Mechanic, preferably in a fleet, transport, manufacturing, agricultural or industrial environment. Experience servicing and repairing diesel engines, trucks and heavy-duty vehicles. Good knowledge of mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Ability to diagnose faults and perform repairs independently. Valid driver's licence; a Code 10 or Code 14 licence would be advantageous, depending on operational requirements.