Machine Operator

The purpose of this Machine Operator role is to fabricate, assemble, and repair metal components by cutting, shaping, welding, and diagnose mechanical faults on production equipment and carry out repairs timeously.

This is an on-site role in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. The business promotes from within wherever possible, opening doors over time. Everyone is expected to pull their weight, and everyone is valued for it. Day to day, you will collaborate with colleagues who take real pride in their work. If you tick the boxes below, we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities

Safety & Workshop Management

• Maintain a clean, organised, and efficient workshop environment following 5S principles by sorting, setting in order, shining, standardising, and sustaining work area organisation, tool storage, and material storage across all workstations and storage zones.
• Conduct daily pre-start inspections of all workshop plant and equipment including machine tools, welding sets, lifting tackle, and portable power tools, reporting any defects to maintenance immediately and tagging out unsafe equipment until repaired.

Quality Control & Inspection

• Conduct incoming inspection of raw materials and components against purchase specifications and material certificates using precision measuring instruments including micrometres, vernier callipers, height gauges, and hardness testers.
• Carry out final inspection and testing of finished products against engineering drawings, customer specifications, and relevant SANS or ISO standards, preparing inspection reports and certificates of conformance for each completed production batch.
• Document, classify, and report all non-conformances identified during production, actively participating in root cause investigations using techniques such as fishbone analysis and five-why methodology to prevent recurrence of the same defects.
• Perform in-process inspections at defined checkpoints during production to verify dimensional accuracy, weld integrity, surface finish, and compliance with quality control plans, releasing only conforming parts for the next operation in the production sequence.

Requirements

• For quality inspection roles, proficiency in using precision measuring instruments and knowledge of inspection techniques and sampling plans.
• Strong understanding of occupational health and safety regulations and a demonstrated commitment to safe working practices.
• Physical fitness to stand for extended periods, handle heavy materials, and work in an industrial environment with noise and heat.
• Willingness to work shifts, overtime, and be on standby as required to support production demands and maintenance schedules.
• Experience in operating material handling equipment including overhead cranes and forklifts with relevant licences.
• For welding roles, proven competency in multiple welding processes and ability to pass welder qualification tests.

Qualifications