Engineering Technician (Millwright)

Location: Pomona, Kempton Park
Salary: R60,000 – R65,000 per month (CTC)
Benefits: Pension Fund, Medical Aid, Company Bakkie & Fuel Allowance

About the Role

An exciting opportunity exists for an experienced and innovative Engineering Technician / Qualified Millwright to join a leading agricultural engineering business. This position combines hands-on technical expertise with leadership responsibility for the company's Farm Monitoring Office (FMO), driving system innovation, remote monitoring capabilities, customer support, and continuous improvement initiatives.

The successful candidate will play a key role in developing, testing, standardising, and supporting mechanical, electrical, and automation solutions while leading remote monitoring and technical support functions.

Key Responsibilities Research & Development

• Design, develop, and improve mechanical, electrical, and control systems.
• Identify field challenges and implement engineering improvements.
• Standardise technical solutions and support product development initiatives.
• Manage product drawings, design changes, documentation, and version control.
• Liaise with suppliers and internal stakeholders regarding product specifications and improvements.

Farm Monitoring Office (FMO) Leadership

• Establish, implement, and manage the Farm Monitoring Office function.
• Develop and maintain monitoring protocols for ventilation systems, controllers, and related infrastructure.
• Oversee real-time system monitoring, alerts, and escalation procedures.
• Ensure effective remote customer support, troubleshooting, and performance optimisation.
• Maintain accurate records of support calls, issues, and resolutions.

Technical Support & Operations

• Provide advanced troubleshooting and fault-finding support for mechanical, electrical, and automation systems.
• Support commissioning teams and field technicians when required.
• Develop technical documentation, SOPs, and best-practice guidelines.
• Act as the technical escalation point for critical system failures.
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of products, systems, and technical manuals.

Data Analysis & System Performance

• Analyse system data to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities.
• Drive predictive maintenance initiatives and proactive customer support strategies.
• Contribute to the continuous enhancement of system reliability and performance.

Millwright & Field Service Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot poultry and piggery equipment.
• Diagnose and resolve electrical and mechanical faults.
• Attend breakdowns and after-hours callouts when required.
• Conduct customer site visits and provide technical support.
• Assist with commissioning, reporting, stock control, documentation, and project-related activities.
• Mentor and support apprentices and junior technical staff.

Leadership & Training

• Build and develop a high-performing technical monitoring team.
• Train customers and internal teams on systems and monitoring tools.
• Promote a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Minimum Requirements Qualifications

• Qualified Millwright (Red Seal or equivalent).

Experience

• 5–8 years' experience within industrial, agricultural, or automation environments.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and control systems.
• Experience with PLCs, sensors, instrumentation, and automation systems.
• Proven troubleshooting and fault-finding ability.
• Experience with ventilation systems within poultry, piggery, or similar agricultural environments advantageous.
• Exposure to IoT, telemetry, remote monitoring, or data analysis systems advantageous.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong technical and engineering aptitude.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership and team development capabilities.
• Sound administrative and organisational skills.
• Proficient in MS Office and computer-based monitoring systems.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Customer-focused with a proactive, solutions-driven approach.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure.
• Willingness to travel as required.

Personal Attributes

• Detail-oriented and deadline-driven.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Adaptable and capable of managing multiple priorities.
• Professional, self-motivated, and results-focused.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced technical environment.