Engineering Foreman (Maintenance) at AVI Limited

• We have an incredible opportunity for an Engineering Foreman (Maintenance) at NBL Durban Tea in Durban, KwaZulu Natal. In this role, you will is responsible for managing, executing the site’s planned, and preventative maintenance programme across production equipment and site infrastructure. The role ensures asset reliability, legal compliance, and optimal functioning of utilities and facilities in support of food safety and operational continuity.                 

Reporting Structure:

• Reports to: Engineering Manager
• Direct reports: 8 artisans

Key Areas of Impact:

Planned and Preventative Maintenance Execution

• Oversee execution of all planned, preventative, and condition-based maintenance activities across production and site services assets.
• Drive adherence to maintenance schedules and ensure timely closure of job cards.
• Coordinate with the maintenance planner to optimize task prioritization and resource allocation.
• Ensure all maintenance complies with legal, safety, and food safety standards (GMP, FSSC 22000).

Team Management and Development

• Lead and support a team of artisans and electricians in performing high-quality preventative maintenance.
• Supervise two handymen responsible for general building, structural, and facility maintenance tasks.
• Facilitate training and skills development to ensure team competence in equipment care and safe work practices.
• Conduct performance management, leave planning, and ensure adherence to company policies.

Building and Facilities Maintenance

• Oversee structural and facility maintenance activities, including:
• Roofs, walls, drainage, ceilings, windows, gates, fences
• Sanitation facilities and ablution blocks
• Roadways and exterior surfaces
• Respond to maintenance requests and ensure facilities are maintained in audit-ready condition

Utilities and Infrastructure

• Monitor and maintain infrastructure integrity for:
• HVAC systems and chilled water plant
• Compressed air systems
• Electrical LV systems and panels
• Fire-fighting equipment and emergency lighting
• Conduct periodic inspections and tests in accordance with compliance schedules

Continuous Improvement and Asset Care

• Analyse maintenance trends to identify recurring issues or opportunities for improvement.
• Contribute to asset care plans and participate in root cause analysis for equipment reliability improvement.
• Support capex and infrastructure projects through planning and technical input.

Compliance and Documentation

• Maintain updated maintenance records, checklists, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and compliance certificates.
• Support internal and external audits through preparation of evidence and corrective action follow-ups.
• Enforce permit-to-work, lockout/tag out, and safe work procedures.

Budget and Cost Control

• Monitor spend on maintenance activities and highlight variances to the Engineering Manager.
• Source quotations and liaise with procurement on spares, tools, and services.

What It Takes to Succeed:

Experience that set you up for success:                       

• 10+ years’ in a maintenance environment, including at least 2 years in a leadership role.

Qualifications & Certifications that will contribute to your success:

• Minimum of N4 – N6 certification or National Diploma in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering
• Completed Trade Test (Mechanical, Millwright or Electrical)

Additional Requirements that will enhance your impact for success:

• Work may include exposure to high-risk areas such as rooftops, substations, and confined spaces.
• Participation in compliance reviews, food safety and hygiene audits, and legal inspections is expected.