Plant / Workshop Manager

We are seeking an experienced Plant / Workshop Manager to oversee the safe, efficient, and cost-effective management of plant / workshops across multiple operational sites. This is a senior, hands-on role requiring strong technical expertise, leadership capability, and commercial awareness.

Key Responsibilities

Safety, Health & Environment

• Ensure full compliance with legal, environmental, and company safety standards across all workshops and plant.
• Conduct safety inspections, audits, toolbox talks, and risk assessments.
• Lead accident and incident investigations and maintain site safety files.
• Drive excellent housekeeping and safety culture across all sites.

People & Leadership

• Lead and manage foremen, supervisors, artisans, and workshop personnel.
• Handle performance management, discipline, grievances, leave, and team development.
• Facilitate skills development and performance reviews.
• Ensure compliance with HR and wage administration procedures.

Technical & Plant Management

• Ensure maximum plant availability through effective maintenance and fast breakdown response.
• Oversee scheduled servicing in line with OEM and engineering standards.
• Manage oil analysis, component replacements, tyres, undercarriages, GET, and warranty compliance.
• Ensure accurate service records, condition reports, and inspection outcomes.
• Control plant readiness for site transfers and suitability for application.

Financial & Commercial Control

• Prepare and manage workshop budgets and control overheads.
• Monitor plant utilisation, hire charges, breakdown hours, and operating costs.
• Approve procurement within authority limits and justify higher-value expenditure.
• Control fuel usage, cellphone costs, spares, and supplier performance.

Site Establishment & Operations

• Plan and manage the establishment of site workshops, stores, fuel depots, wash bays, and utilities.
• Coordinate logistics, manpower, plant mobilisation, housing, security, and signage.
• Ensure effective communication between site operations and head office.

Stakeholder & General Management

• Attend site, technical, and plant meetings.
• Liaise closely with site management and technical teams.
• Regularly visit sites to assess performance and resolve operational challenges.

Minimum Requirements

• Trade Test (NQF Level 3)
• National Diploma: Mechanical Engineering (advantageous)
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in a senior plant, foreman, or workshop management role
• Strong knowledge of mobile plant, heavy equipment, and workshop operations
• Computer literate (MS Office)
• Excellent communication and leadership skills

Required Training / Knowledge (or willingness to obtain)

• Legal Liability
• IRCON
• ICAM / Accident & Incident Investigation
• Emotional Intelligence
• WearCheck Oil Analysis Management