Senior Technical Specialist (Engineering) – DOSTS

The Senior Technical Specialist will provide advanced technical leadership, engineering oversight, and regulatory compliance assurance across all engineering systems, with specific accountability as the legally appointed GMR 2.1 responsible person for machinery and plant safety. The role ensures that all equipment, processes, and maintenance practices comply with statutory requirements, industry standards, and organisational safety policies.

Main job function

GMR 2.1 Legal Accountability:

• Accept legal appointment as GMR 2.1 in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993).
• Ensure all machinery, equipment and plant are safe to operate, properly maintained and compliant.
• Oversee implementation of a comprehensive machinery safety programme.
• Approve and monitor risk assessments related to machinery and engineering systems.
• Ensure statutory inspections, load tests and certifications are completed and recorded.
• Liaise with Department of Employment and Labour inspectors and auditors.

Technical Leadership:

• Provide subject matter expertise in engineering systems.
• Lead troubleshooting of complex technical issues.
• Review designs, modifications and installations for compliance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Maintenance and Asset Management:

• Develop preventative and predictive maintenance strategies.
• Maintain accurate asset registers.
• Monitor equipment performance and lifecycle.
• Manage contractors and service providers.

Health, Safety and Risk Management:

• Lead hazard identification and risk assessments (HIRA).
• Ensure compliance with OHS Act, GMR and applicable SANS standards.
• Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions.

Compliance and Governance:

• Maintain statutory records, permits and certificates.
• Conduct compliance audits and inspections.Report on compliance status to management.

Stakeholder and Team Management:

• Provide mentorship and technical guidance.
• Coordinate with operations, safety and facilities teams.
• Manage contractor performance and compliance.

Qualifications

National Diploma or Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronic or equivalent).

Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) – Factories (preferred).

Criteria

• Minimum 5–10 years’ relevant engineering experience.
• Experience in plant, machinery or facilities management.
• Demonstrated experience in safety compliance
• Must be eligible and competent to be appointed as GMR 2.1 with a thorough understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993) and the General Machinery Regulations.
• Experience in corporate or hospitality industry

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