Maintenance Superintendent: Turner/Machinist at Sappi

Description

• At Sappi, we are a leading global provider with a reputation for delivering high-quality sustainable Woodfibre products and solutions for the global markets. We lead through our values centred around safety, integrity, courage, making smart decisions which we execute with speed. We are seeking unique people who believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive and safe environment.
• We’re on the lookout for an experienced Maintenance Superintendent: Turner/Machinist to perform frontline management of the mechanical workshop (turning section) and machining activities, ensuring the manufacture, repair, and maintenance of high-quality mechanical components that support reliable plant operation. The role provides technical leadership to the Turning/Machining and Fitting teams and ensures that workshop equipment is fully utilized, and that operations are executed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with mill standards and engineering best practices.

As a Maintenance Superintendent: Turner/Machinist, you will be responsible for:

• Plan, coordinate, and supervise all machining and turning work within the mechanical workshop
• Assess equipment, materials, and labour required to complete machining, fabrication, and repair tasks
• Ensure that machining and mechanical maintenance activities meet set quality and safety standards while minimizing downtime and waste
• Allocate and prioritize work orders to turners and machinists to ensure timely delivery of components to production areas
• Collaborate with Maintenance Engineers, Production, and Planning teams to ensure machining jobs align with operational priorities
• Maintain workshop machinery (lathes, milling machines, drilling, and grinding equipment) to ensure reliability and precision
• Oversee the manufacture and repair of rotating components (shafts, sleeves, bushes, couplings, etc.) within tolerance specifications
• Coordinate external machining and contractor work to ensure compliance with Sappi’s quality and safety standards
• Prepare and maintain accurate job documentation, drawings, and inspection reports in accordance with mill and legal requirements
• Conduct feasibility studies and provide technical input for modifications and engineering improvement projects
• Work overtime, standby, and act in a higher position when required
• Manages a portion of the Workshop Fitting/Turning Team
• Stands in for the Fitting Superintendent, when required to
• Supervise and develop turners, machinists, and apprentices to build technical competence and ensure effective team performance
• Manage workforce planning, performance management, and training interventions to maintain adequate skill levels
• Provide ongoing coaching and mentoring to promote multi-skilling and continuous improvement
• Evaluate individual and team performance against goals, ensuring accountability and alignment with departmental standards
• Foster a collaborative, safety-conscious, and results-driven workshop culture
• Understand and enforce SHEQ requirements within the workshop and ensure full compliance with statutory and company ISO standards
• Conduct risk assessments, toolbox talks, and safety inspections to identify and address hazards proactively
• Monitor subordinates’ adherence to safety procedures and correct non-conformances promptly
• Investigate SHEQ incidents, determine root causes, and implement corrective and preventive actions
• Maintain a high level of housekeeping and organization (5S principles) in the workshop at all times

What are we looking for?

• NQF level 4 qualification
• Fitter & Turner/Machinist Trade Test
• Minimum of 5 years post trade test experience
• Supervisory experience is essential
• SAP knowledge will be considered advantageous

What’s in it for you?

• Opportunity to work within a global organisation that continues to thrive in a rapidly changing world even after 80 years of existence
• Learning and development programmes to fast-track your career within Sappi
• Opportunities to travel (dependent on the role)
• Market-leading leave benefits
• Employee wellbeing benefits