Artisan Assistant - VKB Milling, Lydenburg at VKB Group

About the role

• The Artisan Assistant provides support to the maintenance team in ensuring the efficient operation, maintenance, and reliability of plant equipment. The role involves assisting with preventative maintenance, breakdown repairs, shutdown activities, inspections, housekeeping, and asset care while maintaining adherence to Food Safety, SHEQ, and company compliance requirements.
• The successful candidate will work closely with artisans and maintenance personnel to support safe and effective plant operations.

Requirements

• Grade 12 / NQF Level 4 with Mathematics and Science
• 3-5 years' experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably within the food manufacturing industry
• Semi-qualified Millwright qualification advantageous
• Valid driver's licence
• Basic computer literacy (Microsoft Outlook and Excel)
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn

Key Responsibilities

Maintenance Support

• Support fault finding, inspections, breakdown repairs, and preventative maintenance activities.
• Assist artisans with machine component repairs and general plant maintenance tasks.
• Assist with the installation, maintenance, repair, testing, and commissioning of mechanical, electrical, and electronic equipment.

Maintenance Administration

• Capture, update, and close job cards on the On-Key system.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and report breakdowns, follow-up work, and downtime.

Equipment reliability and Production Support

• Conduct routine equipment and line inspections and report defects.
• Assist in reducing downtime and improving equipment availability.
• Support production readiness by ensuring equipment is operational before start-up.

Shutdowns, Housekeeping and Asset Care

• Assist with planned shutdown maintenance and deep-cleaning activities.
• Maintain housekeeping standards and ensure proper care of tools, spares, and equipment.

Food Safety, SHEQ and Compliance

• Comply with Food Safety, Quality, SHEQ, and company requirements.
• Complete required documentation, attend training, and follow all safety procedures.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• Good fault-finding skills and technical aptitude
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work under pressure
• Team player with good interpersonal skills
• Basic computer literacy
• Good coordination and organisational skills
• Self-motivated, reliable, and trustworthy
• Resilient, adaptable, and safety conscious
• Commitment to quality and continuous improvement

Closing Date 02 September 2026