TECHNICAL WRITER - EAST RAND

Introduction

Overview

Our client, a leading manufacturer of hard‑rock mining equipment, is seeking a Junior Technical Writer to support the creation, editing, and maintenance of technical documentation, operator manuals, parts manuals, and engineering publications. This role requires strong technical aptitude, excellent writing skills, and the ability to work closely with engineering, production, and technical support teams.

The ideal candidate will have hands‑on exposure to mining equipment, the ability to interpret engineering drawings, and a passion for producing clear, accurate, and user‑friendly documentation.

Duties & Responsibilities

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Technical Documentation • Observe production, development, and testing activities to gather information for publications. • Communicate with engineering and production teams to understand product technologies. • Review supplier catalogues, drawings, and technical data for equipment operation and service. • Use XML, Microsoft Suite, editing tools, and content‑management software to write, organise, and publish documents. • Ensure documentation meets company standards for clarity, style, terminology, and configuration. • Review published materials and recommend revisions or updates. • Support conversion of manuals to electronic/web‑based formats. • Manage translation requirements for operator and service manuals. • Collaborate with translation vendors and ensure accurate foreign‑language versions.

Illustrations & Layout • Create, edit, and select photographs, drawings, sketches, diagrams, and charts. • Collaborate on layout and formatting of publications. • Arrange printing, duplication, and distribution of manuals.

Parts Manuals • Design and compile parts insert manuals. • Audit BOMs for accuracy and completeness. • Notify draughtsman and Technical Support Specialist of corrections or approvals. • Ensure hydraulic and electrical BOMs are up to date. • Update parts inserts based on change management processes. • Use CAD to update exploded views and create templates for parts books. • Ensure correct scope and accuracy of parts manuals. • Work closely with Draughtsman and Technical Support Specialist to understand design changes.

General Responsibilities • Issue manuals (operators and parts) for printing. • Issue existing drawings to procurement and stores when required. • Archive all relevant technical documentation. • Maintain an up‑to‑date and organised Technical Library. • Ensure manuals are uploaded to the system once complete.

Operator Manuals • Assist with design and formulation of operator insert manuals. • Identify and control errors using the “Request to Draft” system. • Manage updates and changes to machine manuals. • Ensure operator manuals are archived and aligned with OEM technical specifications. • Ensure latest schematics are included in manuals and uploaded to Microsoft Business Central.

Desired Experience & Qualification

Minimum Qualifications & Experience • Grade 12 / Matric. • Technical certification or diploma in Mechanical or Electrical fields advantageous. • 1–3 years’ experience working with hard‑rock mining equipment (essential). • Ability to work extended hours when required to meet deadlines. • Willingness to travel when necessary. • May be required to work in an underground environment.

Technical Skills & Competencies • Strong understanding of technical writing best practices and structured documentation. • Experience with Microsoft Word; knowledge of DITA XML beneficial. • Ability to use 3D CAD programs to create illustrations for manuals. • Strong knowledge of hydraulics and electrical systems. • Beneficial skills: 3D animation, graphic design principles, HTML/programming, database functions. • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and equipment schematics. • Understanding of Bill of Materials (BOM) structures and manufacturing processes. • Strong problem‑solving ability and ability to work under pressure. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. • Flexible, self‑motivated, and customer‑focused. • Knowledge of customer industry and strong customer‑relations skills.

Package & Remuneration

R15 000.00

Medical Aid

Provident Fund