Senior Artisan

Unlock Your Potential

• An exciting opportunity exists for a Senior Artisan at the National Brands Limited (NBL) Durban Tea Factory. The scope of the Senior Artisan is broad in terms of not only executing work tasks but in having a degree of technical oversight for the quality of workmanship across the Maintenance department.
• This role involves coaching artisans on gaps identified and assisting in the development of Junior Artisans and Apprentices, as well as executing on projects.
• The Senior Artisan will also be involved in focused initiatives regarding problem-solving and investigations into availability and reliability within the factory.

Line Manager: Maintenance Manager

Job Specification:

Key Performance Areas:

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, machine downtimes, and artisan performance, reporting regularly to the Maintenance Manager or Engineering Foreman.

Supervision and Training

• Oversee the work of Artisans, Junior Artisans and Apprentices, providing guidance, training, and quality control.
• Mentor team members to develop their skills and ensure adherence to best practices.
• Coordinate maintenance schedules and ensure timely completion of all tasks.

Maintenance and Repairs

• Actively participate in and lead the physical execution of maintenance tasks, ensuring hands-on involvement with equipment and repairs.
• Monitor the quality of maintenance work and processes, ensuring compliance with internal standards, external regulations, and specific adherence and enforcement of food safety and GMP standards.
• Install, assemble, and align machinery and equipment according to engineering specifications and layout plans.
• Ensure that all components are properly fitted and secured to meet installation standards.
• Perform regular maintenance on industrial machinery to prevent breakdowns and extend equipment lifespan.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical/electrical issues, replacing or repairing defective parts and other components.

Troubleshooting:

• Identify and resolve mechanical/electrical problems quickly and efficiently to minimize downtime.
• Use diagnostic tools and techniques to assess machinery performance and identify potential issues before they escalate.

Fabrication and Modification:

• Fabricate, modify, and install custom parts or components as needed to improve machinery performance or accommodate new processes.

Safety Compliance:

• Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols, ensuring that all work is performed in a safe and compliant manner.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety measures to protect the team and equipment.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with OEM’s, service providers, Training and internal stakeholders to ensure high quality delivery of maintenance.

Minimum Requirements:

Experience:

• Must have at least 5 years of work experience as an artisan.
• Supervisory experience within the FMCG sector is advantageous.

Qualifications:

• N6 Diploma in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
• Millwright / Fitter Trade Test.

Additional Requirements:

• The role may require working shifts, including nights and weekends.
• Physical requirements include standing for long periods, lifting moderate weights, and actively participating in maintenance tasks.
• Must be willing to be on standby and available to work overtime as required.

Closing Date 25 September 2026