Job Summary
Workshop Manager - Luxury Safari Lodge - Timbavati Kendrick Recruitment is looking for an experienced, hands-on Workshop Manager for a luxury safari lodge in the Timbavati region. The successful candidate will oversee the lodge’s fleet, generators, workshop operations and maintenance team, ensuring vehicles and equipment remain safe, reliable and ready for use. Location: Timbavati Accommodation: Live-in Salary: Negotiable, depending on experience Key Responsibilities Fleet and Workshop Management - Oversee the maintenance, servicing and repair of vehicles and plant equipment. - Implement inspection programmes and service schedules to maximise vehicle availability and minimise downtime. - Inspect and test serviced vehicles, including test drives, to check workmanship. - Monitor fleet condition and recommend repairs or replacements. - Coordinate maintenance schedules and costs with department managers. - Keep guest-facing vehicles in excellent operating and presentation condition. - Manage outsourced repairs and maintain accurate service records and vehicle files. - Ensure vehicles are licensed and roadworthy. Generators and Infrastructure - Oversee generator servicing and maintenance. - Maintain generator reliability and operational readiness. - Monitor performance and preventative maintenance schedules. Administration and Financial Management - Manage workshop budgets, stocktakes, inventory and cost controls. - Process invoices, recharges and workshop financial administration. - Maintain records of expenditure, stock usage, vehicle servicing and suppliers. - Oversee petty cash and monthly reconciliations. - Procure parts and consumables, maintain appropriate stock levels and monitor supplier pricing. Sustainability and Compliance - Monitor fuel use, generator efficiency and waste management. - Maintain sustainability records for reporting and audits. - Identify ways to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. - Ensure oils, parts and hazardous materials are handled and disposed of responsibly. - Maintain compliance with environmental and operational standards. Team Leadership and Health & Safety - Recruit, onboard, train and develop workshop staff. - Manage performance reviews, training needs, leave, attendance and timekeeping. - Address disciplinary matters in line with company procedures. - Lead regular team meetings and communicate operational updates. - Maintain safe working conditions, PPE use and compliance with workshop safety standards. - Ensure equipment is maintained, certified and operated safely. - Coordinate emergency preparedness and first aid readiness. Requirements - Qualified Vehicle Mechanic with strong technical expertise. - At least 3–5 years’ experience managing a workshop in a similar-sized operation. - Extensive knowledge of vehicle maintenance, diagnostics and repairs. - Experience managing fleets, generators and workshop operations. - Strong administrative, financial management, organisational and planning skills. - Proven leadership and team management experience. - Valid South African driver’s licence with PDP. - Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills. - Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Key Skills and Attributes - Strong communication and interpersonal skills. - Excellent attention to detail and high workmanship standards. - Proactive, solution-focused and able to resolve technical challenges. - Professional, honest, dependable and well organised. - Energetic, self-motivated, adaptable and resilient. - Team-oriented, with the ability to mentor and develop others. - Committed to service, safety and operational excellence. What’s on Offer - Live-in position in a luxury safari lodge environment. - Responsibility for a varied fleet and workshop operation. - Competitive salary package based on experience. - Long-term career growth opportunities. If you do not hear from us within 7 working days, please consider your application unsuccessful.