Vacancies Available at Sappi

As a Chief Draughtsman, you will be responsible for:

• Manage (plan, organise, develop, lead, and control) the draughting requirements within the mill 
• Interpret and convert mechanical system concept designs into detailed technical drawings (orthographic/isometric views)
• Collaborate with professional and technical personnel on draughting requests, establishing requirements and assigning to individual draughtsmen by workload and priority of the request
• Prioritise, coordinate and assign draughting activities to the draughting team and ensure work is completed in a safe, effective, and timely manner that meets mill standards, objectives, and costs.
• Reassign work to accommodate ad-hoc requests for emergency draughting requests enabling efficient completion of tasks with the drawing office
• Direct employees in resolving complex and or difficult draughting assignments providing advice and guidance to aid in the completion of the task
• Monitor and control drawing progress against workload schedule and set requirements, completing follow-ups with assigned draughtsman to evaluate if assistance is required
• Evaluate the drawings completed and assess compliance with accepted engineering, mill, safety standards and regulations
• Review the resource requirements and team responsibilities continuously to maximise department efficiencies of the team

What are we looking for?

• NQF level 6 qualification in Engineering or Draughting.
• 5 + years of experience  in a design office environment with a focus on heavy industry
• Proficiency in Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD software is mandatory.
• Drawing office management experience would be an advantage
• Experience in the use of Plant 3D and SAP would be advantage

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As a Fitter you will be responsible for:

• Maintaining  a high level of good housekeeping in the workplace at all times.
• Reporting all unsafe acts to the Maintenance Foreman, draws spares from Stores – picking list on the computer, etc.
• Fitting, assembling, grinding and shaping metal parts and subassemblies to fabricate production machines and other equipment.
• Performing any other allocated tasks that fall within the scope of a Fitter, will be required to work standby and overtime.
• Identification and development of Annual and Incidental Shut Scope and Execution Programme applicable to all Plants in area of responsibility.
• Doing daily and weekly inspections on equipment according to a detailed Check-List,  will cover breakdowns after hours and weekends on a standby basis.
• Understanding the SHEQ requirements of the Section, investigates incidents (SHEQ) and identifies root causes of non-Conformances and corrects deviations.
• Scheduling maintenance of Plant according to SAP Notifications and Planned Schedules, and does fault finding on systems during breakdown and repair the problem to keep downtime to a minimum.

What are we looking for?

• Matric & N2 Engineering (N3 Desirable)
• Trade Tested Certificate
• minimum 5 years fitting experience with experience in the following
• hydraulics
• pumps
• gearboxes
• Experience within the pulp and paper operation will be advantagueos as well

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As an Instrument Mechanician, you will be responsible for:

• Maintain plant instrumentation in good working condition by completing scheduled maintenance as per SAP works order
• Perform all required calibrations according to the standard work instructions and fill in the calibration sheets
• Maintain a good knowledge of field instruments, instrumentation drawings, plant layout, plant process, and availability of procedures to allow for quick and accurate fault finding
• Adhere to conditions of employment by performing standby, overtime, and shift work when required
• Complete instrument installation and modification required according to the set standards
• Update and maintain SAP Notifications of work orders by capturing failure codes and repair codes on the notification and completing the order once work is completed
• Complete plant inspections in his or her area reports and rectify faults found
• Assist the Instrument Superintendent in the skills development of apprentices and trainees

What are we looking for?

• Grade 12 with an N3 Engineering 
• Recognised Trade Test Certificate as an Instrument Mechanician
• 2 years post apprenticeship experience in a heavy industry environment will be advantageous

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As a Specialist Ligno, you will be responsible to:

• Develop and implement short-term plans (budgets) to enhance machinery, workforce, and best practices, driving continuous improvement in pulp mill performance.
• Optimize plant operations to maximize resource utilization, including raw materials, energy, and personnel.
• Monitor Lignin production performance against targets and coordinate production plans with the Sales team.
• Review monthly performance of the NSSC process against QCDPE (Quality, Cost, Delivery, People, Environment) objectives, initiating corrective actions when necessary.
• Support the implementation of Lean Manufacturing principles and the Profit Improvement Program (PIP).
• Oversee the SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality) system by performing risk analyses and evaluating monthly compliance with established objectives.
• Plan and facilitate operational activities during shutdown processes to ensure smooth execution.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and define monthly and annual objectives in alignment with the mill's goals, budget, and the SHEQ framework, ensuring alignment across quality, cost, delivery, safety, and environmental priorities for team members and their areas of responsibility.
• Ensure compliance with relevant standards, including OHSACT, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and GMP+ within the NSSC and Lignin sections.
• Investigate SHEQ-related incidents, identify root causes of non-conformances, and implement corrective measures.
• Maintain a high standard of housekeeping in the workplace at all times to ensure a safe and organized environment.
• Foster effective communication with internal and external suppliers and customers.
• Address customer feedback promptly and implement corrective actions as needed to maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.

Relevant Qualifications & Experience

• N Diploma/Degree (Chemical Eng /Pulp &Paper)
• Minimum (5) years’ experience of which (3) years should be working on a Plant Operations process
• (2) years’ Supervisory experience
• Computer Literacy (SAP & MS Office)
• Lignin related or Pulp experience would be advantageous

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As a Superintendent: Mechanical (Workshop), you will be responsible for:

• Communicates management objectives, changes, and policies to subordinates in the workshops
• Supervising, coordinating, and coaching subordinates
• Manage mechanical workshop flow chart of equipment 
• Monitors monthly budget reports and takes all possible action to remain within the budget
• Control and manage WorkCentre cost and PR’s
• Effectively manage SAP backlog management process
• Works within the framework of the Companies Safe work procedure (SHEQ) policies
• Prioritize and assign all work orders
• Creates/releases work orders on SAP and generates store requisitions, updates BOM ( bill of materials) as required, and generates RFQ’S with the scope of work
• Ensures high standards of workmanship by over-inspecting and following the work progress by workshop QCP
• Manage and carry out final acceptance of repaired equipment
• Conduct and evaluate repair standards
• Manages time and attendance
• Continuously monitors, supports, evaluates, and revises best operating practices, QCP’s, and drawings/diagrams
• Monitors, equipment effectiveness to recommend maintenance upgrades and the replacements of existing equipment to optimise efficiency and availability
• Assists with planning of scheduled maintenance plant shutdowns

    What are we looking for?

• NQF4 qualification with a relevant Trade Test Certificate
• Minimum 5 years post trade test experience
• Supervisory experience would be advantageous

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Key Responsibilities:

• Timely sourcing and procurement of materials, ensuring compliance with specifications and policies.
• Participate in procurement planning for projects and shutdowns.
• Issue, evaluate, and award tenders in accordance with procurement policies.
• Ensure certificates of conformance are provided as required.
• Provide daily feedback on Price Variance Reports.
• Maintain vendor master data and foster strong supplier relationships.
• Resolve issues such as late deliveries and invoice variances.
• Coordinate logistics, clearing agents, and expedite deliveries.

Requirements:

• Diploma in Supply Chain Management or a related field.
• SAP MM experience is an advantage.
• Minimum of 2 years' experience in an industrial, procurement, or materials management environment.
• Experience in a technical or manufacturing environment is a plus.

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As a Plant Engineer, you will:

• Oversee Maintenance: Ensure the safe and efficient operation of plant equipment, managing maintenance to meet O&M Service Provider standards.
• Lead Technically: Provide engineering leadership and technical expertise to drive operational excellence across the plant.
• Maximize Efficiency: Ensure plant equipment operates at peak performance, meeting design capacity and specifications.
• Monitor Performance: Track critical performance metrics daily, address any deviations, and proactively mitigate risks of unplanned downtime.
• Track Operational History: Oversee the maintenance of historical data, monitoring for long-term deviations that could impact performance.
• Identify Capital Needs: Assess and recommend capital investments to improve production efficiencies and maintain accurate records.
• Generate Reports: Evaluate turbine, generator, and boiler performance, producing detailed monthly performance reports.
• Ensure Compliance: Update and ensure adherence to operational control standards, legal requirements, and OEM specifications.
• Troubleshoot & Problem-Solve: Collaborate with the O&M team to identify issues, develop corrective actions, and foster a problem-solving culture.
• Plan & Audit: Develop short-, medium-, and long-term production and outage plans; conduct audits to ensure effective use of PMs, permits, and CMMS systems.
• Prioritize Safety: Uphold the highest standards of safety, health, and environmental compliance, ensuring adherence to the Occupational Health and Safety Act and company SHEQ policies.

What we're looking for:

• Qualifications: Minimum NQF Level 6 - Diploma and GCC (Factories)

Experience:

• At least 5 years of process experience (Combustion) or utilities experience
• Proven track record of plant operations and maintenance
• Skills & Expertise: Strong technical knowledge, leadership capabilities, and a commitment to operational excellence.

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As a Shift Superintendent Fibre Line #2, you will be responsible for:

• Ensure smooth shift handovers in accordance with best practices.
• Participate in relevant forums/meetings (e.g., SBT, Shift Superintendent’s, MDT Meetings, Weekly Planning).
• Set and evaluate performance objectives and conduct standards based on measurable criteria to drive maximum performance.
• Facilitate corrective action processes to maintain constructive employment relations.
• Coach and mentor team members to ensure competence and development.
• Provide on-the-job training and arrange external training as required.
• Adjust shift rosters/hours based on operational needs.
• Review and update BOPs in line with LMF, CDC, and IMS requirements.
• Ensure employee well-being and manage overtime effectively.
• Plan and control expenditure within budgetary constraints.
• Minimize waste to maximize production while maintaining ISO standards.
• Recommend equipment maintenance/upgrades to optimize production efficiency using RCA, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement processes.
• Liaise with stakeholders to ensure the timely supply of raw materials and alignment with the production plan.
• Oversee production activities (e.g., shuts, start-ups, checks, log sheets, graph trends) to maintain quality standards and plant efficiency.
• Facilitate team problem-solving using RCA, brainstorming, and other techniques.
• Understand and apply SHEQ requirements where necessary.
• Perform plant inspections to ensure compliance with standards.
• Investigate incidents and identify root causes of non-conformance, correcting deviations.
• Ensure lock-out procedures are adhered to.
• Control the supply of protective clothing for shift crew.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards following 5S principles.
• Manage incidental shuts and participate in MDT Shut Planning.

What are we looking for:

• National Diploma in Pulp and Paper or Chemical Engineering.
• 5+ years of experience in the Pulp and Paper Industry

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Key Responsibilities:

• Coach line managers on health and safety legal requirements and certification standards.
• Monitor and report on health and safety compliance; provide actionable recommendations.
• Facilitate qualitative and quantitative risk assessments.
• Oversee the Management of Change (MOC) process and monitor Project Job Orders (PJO).
• Provide training in incident management and root cause analysis.
• Coordinate health and safety awareness campaigns and conduct induction training.
• Perform inspections, audits, and follow up on findings.
• Offer expert advice to ensure compliance with legal standards.

Essential Qualifications:

• National Diploma in Safety Management or an equivalent NQF Level 6 qualification.
• Certificates in HIRA, RCAT, and SHEQ Auditing.
• Membership with SAIOSH.

Minimum Experience:

• 2 to 3 years of health and safety experience in manufacturing.
• Knowledge of Integrated Management Systems (IMS).
• Experience in facilitating Behaviour Based Safety (BBS) and action planning.
• Advanced understanding of Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment.
• Expertise in incident investigation and root cause analysis.
• Familiarity with Isometrix SHEQ Management System.
• Strong knowledge of the OHS Act 85 of 1993 and its regulations.
• Experience in Planned Task/Job Observations and Visible Felt Leadership.
• Registration with SACPCMP as CHSO is advantageous.

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Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute strategic maintenance plans to optimize equipment reliability and efficiency.
• Oversee a wide range of mechanical services, including rigging, fabrication, condition monitoring, and project engineering.
• Manage the development and maintenance of comprehensive maintenance standards and procedures.
• Lead project planning and execution, ensuring adherence to Sappi's project management standards and change management practices.
• Direct and coordinate major and minor shutdowns, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
• Identify and implement reliability improvement initiatives to enhance equipment performance.
• Manage third-party contractors, ensuring quality, compliance, and cost-effectiveness.
• Foster a strong safety culture, ensuring adherence to legal regulations and continuous improvement in health, safety, and environmental performance.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Sciences (4 year degree)
• Relevant management qualification (e.g., PMP, MBA)
• 5-8 years of experience in a maintenance leadership role, preferably in the pulp and paper industry
• Government Certificate of Competence (Factories)
• Professional Engineering registration (advantageous)

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As a Millwright, you will be responsible for:

• Diagnose, repair, and maintain mechanical equipment such as pumps, valves, and motors.
• Troubleshoot electrical faults, rewire components and maintain electrical systems.
• Conduct scheduled maintenance tasks to prevent breakdowns and optimise equipment performance.
• Adhere to safety regulations and maintain a safe work environment.
• Identify and resolve technical issues, implementing effective solutions.
• Participate in projects related to equipment upgrades, installations, and modifications.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities.
• Collaborate with team members to achieve shared goals.

What are we looking for?

• Matric & N6 Engineering (National Diploma)
• Recognised Trade Tested certificate as Millwright
• Minimum of 2 years experience post trade test in a heavy industry or chemical manufacturing environment  whilst 5 years of industry experience will be advantageous
• Advantageous, if the prospective incumbent has basic knowledge of Plumbing & Civil Works