Job Vacancies at NECSA

Key Performance Areas

Maintenance of Reactor and Irradiation Facilities

• Ensure SAFARI-1 reactor systems and irradiation facilities (IPR rigs, beam lines, pneumatics, RINGAS, silicon rigs) are maintained for optimal performance and availability.
• Schedule and coordinate routine and ad-hoc maintenance based on MPRs and operational requirements.
• Maintain the plant and facilities in a state of operational readiness within allocated budgets and manpower.
• Independently prioritize and plan maintenance tasks including corrective, preventive, and predictive maintenance.

Shutdown Planning and Execution

• Ensure effective planning and coordination of all shutdown maintenance activities.
• Develop and distribute the monthly shutdown schedule to internal and external stakeholders (including NNR) on time.
• Conduct pre- and post-shutdown meetings with RR managers and section heads to align expectations and performance.
• Evaluate and refine shutdown strategies based on historical data and RFM logs.

Maintenance Task Monitoring and Resource Coordination

• Monitor progress and manage resources effectively for ongoing maintenance tasks.
• Track status of ad-hoc and scheduled maintenance tasks through systems such as RFM and ISI.
• Engage regularly with technicians, artisans, engineers, and managers to ensure task progress and resolve delays.
• Balance resource availability with maintenance demands to optimize utilization.

 Safety and Compliance

• Promote and maintain a safe working environment through adherence to safety protocols and standards.
• Adhere to NECSA safety rules, PPE requirements, and permit systems.
• Participate in safety initiatives, including BBS (Behavior-Based Safety).
• Strive for continuous reduction of DIIR and TIR rates.

Management Systems and Reporting

• Utilize and manage maintenance and information systems effectively for planning and decision-making.
• Maintain accuracy of the RFM ad-hoc maintenance logging system.
• Prepare quarterly reports and present insights at meetings with RR management.
• Ensure integration of ISI, RFM, and shutdown schedules for comprehensive planning.

HR, Learning and Growth

• Support team development and personal growth through training and skills enhancement.
• Provide technical support and informal training to artisans and technicians.
• Participate in training initiatives in alignment with the IDP and statutory requirements.

Minimum Qualifications:

• National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering, or related technical field.
• A recognized qualification in Maintenance Planning/Scheduling will be an added advantage

Minimum Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in maintenance planning, engineering, or operations, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or coordination role.
• Proven track record of planning and executing routine and shutdown maintenance in a complex technical environment.
• SAP PM (Plant Maintenance) or equivalent CMMS training/certification.
• Project Management or Maintenance Planning short courses

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Key Performance Areas

• Asset Maintenance management for the Necsa Group (Entire buildings, steam boilers, air compressors, HVAC systems, plumbing systems, sewerage systems, mobile equipment.
• Management of a portfolio consisting of: Mechanical Maintenance, HVAC Maintenance,
• Plumbing Maintenance, Rigging Services, Mobile Equipment Maintenance.
• Managing breakdowns of mechanical, HVAC, plumbing systems, mobile equipment
• Planning of preventive and breakdown maintenance
• Backlog monitoring and control
• Planned scheduling creation and overseeing the adherence and timely completion of work carried out
• Maintenance of Boilers (4x 10t boilers), compressors, chillers, mobile equipment, lifting equipment, plumbing installations, buildings, etc.
• Improve mean time between failures and downtime reduction of critical equipment, and manage and implement improvement plans,
• Implement and manage continuous improvement and modern maintenance principals by highlighting deficiencies and recommending changes in training, working practices and processes
• Develop a Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) schedule, ensure full preventative maintenance is carried out, plan in missed maintenance activities, and lead the team to deliver effectively
• Schedule both internal and external work(s) maximising planned down time and reducing unplanned downtime
• Optimise equipment according to standard procedure, enhancing performance and product quality, ensuring the achievement of all Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
• Ensure routine calibration and maintenance requirements of a variety of electromechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems are undertaken
• Ensure that designated buildings, plant and facilities are fit for purpose and to provide proactive support/solutions when required
• Develop clear accountability for maintenance material spend combined with a strategy to manage expenditure
• Manage systems and equipment data storage and maintain high levels of standards and accuracy
• Manage the process of the introduction of new machinery, plant and equipment from drawing up the specification, to managing suppliers through to full installation in collaboration with all relevant parties
• Manage the process of disposal of obsolete machinery, plant and equipment from gaining agreement to write off to physically removing it and its safe and lawful disposal
• Produce written reports and make presentations
• Perform root cause analysis and resolve problems
• Stay current and up to date on any changes that may affect the supply and demand of needed services and materials and advise others of any impact
• Develop, implement and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) for each area of responsibility
• Ensure KPIs are met by working to the overall plan, including management of, and reporting
• Conduct risk assessments of processes and tasks in the department
• Manage contractors on site to ensure they meet legal and company requirements
• Ensure that the function operates in accordance with any health, safety and environmental policies and procedures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of staff and visit Manage the team on technical best practice and establish standard policies and procedures whilst also mentoring and leading the department.
• Manage the team to ensure machine availability, reactively managing dysfunctional machinery
• Maintain the human capacity and competence in the Necsa Group to be able to provide sustainable maintenance support
• Undertake continuous training and development
• Provide technical expertise to the team
• Identify and deploy the technical skill sets, resource levels and systems to deliver small maintenance projects, including the engagement of external resources as required
• Manage, coach and develop a high performing Maintenance team that meets agreed objectives and which delivers best practice results, added value and continuous improvements
• Set department objectives/KPIs and review and assess ongoing performance of direct reports
• Report on achievement of targets and identify any actions required
• Consistently promote high standards through personal example and roll out through the team so that each member of the team understands the standards and behaviours expected of them
• Ensure the delivery of the People Strategy within area of accountability
• Manage and lead the team, ensuring adequate staffing levels
• Motivate and coach the team to operational success
• Monitor the completion of tasks and ensure good performance and record on appropriate systems
• Review, implement and update company records e.g. training matrices, performance reviews, risk assessments
• Communicate KPIs from the strategic annual plan so that each employee is aware
• Input and hold responsibility for maintenance budgets
• Prepare the annual Maintenance budget and forecasts and all Capital Expenditure proposals as well as ensuring compliance with legal standards.
• Manage the budget from identification to completion of projects
• Prepare the annual Maintenance budget and forecasts and all Capital Expenditure proposals as well as ensuring compliance with legal standards.
• Manage the budget from identification to completion of projects
• Contribute to the creation and implementation of best practice maintenance vision,strategy, policies, processes and procedures to aid and improve operational performance
• Contribute to new business initiatives and projects and review and communicate the impact on Maintenance activities
• Work as part of the Management team to share ideas and improve operation, recommending, supporting and implementing continuous improvement activities and process and procedure improvements to optimise results and improve quality of delivery, in line with quality standards requirements delivery in line with Company and Customer requirements
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to ensure optimal performance
• Work collaboratively, negotiate and engage with key stakeholders to facilitate delivery and compliance with the maintenance strategy
• Communicate with stakeholders the impact of market change and potential effects on engineering design and development. Recommend solutions without compromising quality or service while optimising cost
• Liaise and communicate with other departments, customers, suppliers and other service providers
• Ensure an effective interface with other departmental staff is maintained

Minimum Qualifications:

• BSc/B-Tech Mechanical Degree or equivalent
• Formal management diploma or equivalent
• GCC qualification would be an advantage

Minimum Experience:

• At least 5 years’ experience in a mechanical management role
• Extensive plant level experience with significant proven man management experience
• Experience of managing Profit and Loss (P&L) responsibilities for maintenance
• Understanding of manufacturing and procurement/supply chain
• Understanding of ISO 14001/9001/45001
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office

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Key Performance Areas

MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

• Review and update Level 1, 2, 3 and 4 documents consisting of policy, objectives, procedures, work instructions, inspection instructions, and quality plans in order to ensure that process changes, engineering changes, customer requirements and changes are accurately documented.
• Assist with conducting customer satisfaction surveys.    
• Assist in Planning and conducting Management Reviews.

Maintain the Non-conformance system:-

• By keeping the Non Conformance register update.
• Report the NCR status and statistics thereof.
• Participate in Root cause analysis.

QUALIFICATIONS PROGRAM

• Monitor product/process qualification status on an ongoing basis and to ensure timeous re-qualification before expiry, or when the process or EFT changes, or in case of an abnormal scrap rate.BY:-
• Compiling process, product or person qualification reports:
• Based on historical data using statistical process analysis,
• Based on new, actual evidence by witnessing the process, compile witness report and re-qualify the product / process / person for the next period.
• Issue product / process qualification certificate.
• Monitor first off inspections conducted by the QC Inspector.

RELEASE OF ITEMS

• Compile product record files (PRF’s) for manufactured components, sub-assemblies and assemblies.
• Issue certificate of conformance (COC) for released components.

AUDIT SYSTEM

• Participate and conducting internal surveillance audits and provides relevant feedback to the relevant manager to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Participate during SHEQ audits and regulatory inspections in relation to the QMS and Safety Culture.

CALIBRATION

• Schedule calibration of inspection, measuring and test equipment (IMTE) with external service providers to maintain integrity, accuracy and compliance to ISO17025.
• Perform Ad-Hoc Verification of measuring instruments using the Master Reference Standards.

QC ACTIVITIES

• Perform Ad-hoc Dimensional Inspection, Radiographic Testing and Receiving Inspections.

Qualifications and Experience:

Minimum Qualifications:

• National Diploma in Engineering (preferable Mechanical) (or equivalent NQF Level 6 or higher)

Added Advantages

• Certified training as a Lead Auditor or Auditor
• Radiographic Testing Level 1 certification
• Dimensional Metrology Level 1 certification
• Ultrasonic Testing Level 1 certification

Minimum Experience:

• 10 years’ experience in quality assurance in a highly regulated environment.
• 5 years’ experience in dimensional inspection and non-destructive examination.
• 10 years’ experience in Auditing.

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Key Performance Areas:

Scientific/Technical Leadership

Projects:

• R&D Leadership: Take charge of assigned research and development projects, overseeing project teams, setting clear objectives, managing timelines, and ensuring that the projects align with organizational goals and contribute to advancing the field.
• Resource Management: Allocate and manage resources efficiently, including funding, personnel, and equipment, to meet project milestones while optimizing performance and outcomes.
• Innovation and Collaboration: Encourage innovation within the project teams and seek opportunities for collaboration with external partners, academic institutions, and industry experts to enhance project value and impact.
• Reactor Ageing Support: Providing scientific guidance and support to reactor ageing projects.

Reactor Ageing Support:

• Scientific Advisory: Provide expert scientific advice on reactor ageing studies, drawing on the latest research and best practices to inform project approaches and methodologies.
• Technical Analysis: Contribute to the analysis of ageing-related data, helping to interpret results and develop strategies to extend reactor life, enhance safety, and optimize performance.Cross-Disciplinary Integration: Work with engineers, materials scientists, and maintenance teams to integrate scientific findings into practical reactor ageing management plans and maintenance schedules.

Isotope Production/Optimisation:

• Production Guidance: Offer expert guidance on isotope production projects, ensuring that methods are efficient, cost-effective, and yield high-purity products.
• Optimization Strategies: Develop and implement optimization strategies for isotope production processes, focusing on improving yields, reducing waste, and enhancing safety protocols. 
• Innovative Techniques: Stay abreast of emerging technologies and methods in isotope production and introduce innovative practices that can lead to breakthroughs in production efficiency and product application.

Planning and Coordination:

• Goal Setting: Establish clear, measurable goals for projects and initiatives, ensuring that planning and coordination are aligned with the strategic objectives of the organization.
• Project Management: Implement robust project management practices, including defining roles and responsibilities, scheduling, and risk management, to ensure that activities are well-coordinated and objectives are met efficiently. 
• Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with all relevant stakeholders, from team members to leadership and external partners, to ensure coordinated efforts, clear communication, and alignment of expectations and resources.

Scientific Consultancy and Product Development

Scientific Consultancy:

•  Expert Advice: Provide high-level expertise and advice on complex scientific matters, leveraging extensive knowledge and experience to assist with strategic decision-making and problem-solving.
• Research and Analysis: Conduct in-depth research and analysis in specialized scientific fields to inform consultancy services, ensuring recommendations are based on the latest scientific advancements and best practices.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with internal and external stakeholders to understand their scientific challenges and objectives, offering tailored consultancy services that add significant value to their operations and projects.

SAFARI-Fuel/Product Specifications:

• Specification Development: Engage in the collaborative process of drafting and refining specifications for SAFARI-fuel and related products, ensuring that all technical, safety, and regulatory requirements are met.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Partner with cross-functional teams, including R&D, production, and quality assurance, to ensure that fuel/product specifications align with operational capabilities and quality standards.
• Continuous Improvement: Monitor the performance and application of SAFARI fuel/products to recommend and implement updates to specifications, driving continuous improvement in quality and efficiency.

Engineering Specifications - MPR:

• Technical Contribution: Provide input into the engineering specifications for the Multi-purpose Reactor, drawing on a deep understanding of nuclear engineering principles, safety considerations, and operational requirements.
• Innovation Integration: Advocate for the inclusion of innovative design features and advanced technologies in the engineering specifications to ensure that the MPR leads in safety, efficiency, and functionality.
• Collaborative Design Review: Participate in design review sessions, contributing to a multidisciplinary team effort to refine and optimize the engineering specifications of the MPR to meet future demand and regulatory changes.

Development and Innovation

Material Irradiation Capabilities:

• Capability Development: Spearhead the development of advanced material irradiation capabilities, focusing on enhancing the facility's capacity for research and commercial irradiation services.
• Innovation and Technology Integration: Integrate cutting-edge technology and innovative practices into the irradiation processes to improve precision, safety, and throughput.
• Collaborative Research: Collaborate with academic and industry partners to expand the scope and application of irradiation services, meeting the evolving needs of materials science and engineering communities

Theoretical Models:

• Model Implementation: Oversee the implementation of robust theoretical models, ensuring they are well-suited for the analysis and prediction of complex physical phenomena.
• Validation and Refinement: Validate the models with experimental data, refine them based on outcomes, and continuously improve their accuracy and applicability.
• Cross-Disciplinary Applications: Apply theoretical models across various disciplines to support research and development projects, contributing to a deeper understanding of the underlying processes.

Data and Results Coordination:

• Data Management: Coordinate the collection, storage, and analysis of data from experiments and projects, ensuring high standards of data integrity and accessibility.
• Results Evaluation: Evaluate the results critically, drawing meaningful conclusions and identifying trends that can inform future research directions or operational improvements.
•  Interdepartmental Collaboration: Facilitate collaboration between departments to ensure data is shared efficiently and results are communicated effectively, supporting informed decision-making across the organization.

Documentation:

• Progress Reports: Prepare accurate and detailed quarterly progress reports that capture the developments, achievements, and challenges of ongoing projects.
• Safety Documentation: Compile safety documentation that adheres to regulatory requirements and best practices, highlighting any changes or updates in safety procedures.
• Project-Related Documents:Generate comprehensive project-related documents, such as technical reports, research findings, and recommendations, ensuring that all stakeholders are well-informed of the project status and outcomes.

Safety culture and performance

• Safety Training: Engage in regular safety trainings and contribute to the training of staff.
• BBS Observations: Perform monthly safety observations to identify and encourage safe workplace behaviors.
• Safety Initiatives: Actively participate in and promote safety culture through continuous improvement efforts and open communication on safety matters.

Qualifications and Experience: 

Education:

• B Sc (Hons) in Physics with Material Science / M Sc in Physics with Material Science

  OR

• BEng in Mechanical engineering / MEng in Mechanical Engineering

Experience: 

• 5+ Years experience (MSc/MEng) or 7+ years (BSc-Hons/BEng) with:
• Extensive metallurgy experience, preferably with Aluminium alloys.
• Broad Physics/Engineering
• Knowledge: Sound knowledge of a broad spectrum of physics/engineering-related