Maintenance Manager – Manufacturing

Pietermaritzburg

Are you a hands-on, experienced Maintenance Manager who leads from the plant floor rather than from an office?

Our client is seeking a hardworking, operational and results-driven Maintenance Manager with a strong background in the manufacturing industry. This is a leadership role for an individual who is actively involved in the day-to-day maintenance operation, leads by example and is comfortable getting involved when and where required.

This role will not suit a manager who prefers to lead from behind a desk. The successful candidate will be visible and actively engaged with the engineering team, equipment, maintenance activities and plant operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise, lead and actively support engineering workshop staff.

• Plan, coordinate and oversee all plant maintenance activities.

• Be hands-on and actively involved in resolving operational and maintenance challenges.

• Manage and drive the plant's preventative maintenance programme.

• Evaluate, monitor and optimise plant availability, reliability and performance.

• Allocate work across day and night shifts and maintain effective operational coverage.

• Coordinate planned shutdowns and manage contractors when required.

• Ensure the availability of materials, equipment and spare parts.

• Monitor quality standards and control maintenance costs to maximise component lifespan.

• Maintain accurate engineering records and documentation.

• Prepare and manage budgets, resource planning, cost control and reporting.

• Ensure compliance with all safety, quality and company policies, procedures and standards.

• Provide strong technical and operational leadership to the maintenance function.

Minimum Requirements

• Trade Test (Red Seal) or equivalent qualification, or an N3 qualification.

• Relevant Engineering Diploma and/or Certificate of Competence.

• Minimum 5 years' experience in a manufacturing environment.

• At least 7 years' experience as a qualified Artisan, preferably within manufacturing.

• Minimum 3 years' supervisory or management experience.

• Previous appointment to a legal safety role.

• Valid Code 8 driver's licence.

• Experience working in a 24-hour operation.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for an operational leader first and a manager second — someone who understands machinery, maintenance and production environments and is prepared to be on the floor with their team, not managing the operation remotely from an office.

You should be comfortable rolling up your sleeves, troubleshooting problems, making decisions under pressure and holding your team accountable for delivering a safe, reliable and efficient plant.

If you are a hands-on Maintenance Manager who leads by example and thrives in a fast-paced, 24-hour manufacturing environment, this could be the opportunity for you.