Forklift Technician

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Location: Gauteng

Purpose of the Job

The primary purpose of this role is to meticulously execute a comprehensive range of tasks essential for the efficient and high-quality maintenance and repair of vehicles. This involves more than just mechanical aptitude; it requires a keen eye for detail and a commitment to operational excellence. Core responsibilities include the precise and careful removal and stripping of various vehicle parts and components, ensuring they are prepared for further inspection or replacement. Following this, the diligent cleaning of these spare parts and components is paramount, as it directly impacts their longevity and performance when reassembled. Crucially, the role also demands a proactive approach to maintaining a clean, organized, and safe workstation, including the proper care and storage of all tools. This dedication to tidiness not only enhances efficiency but also minimizes the risk of accidents and extends the lifespan of valuable equipment. Finally, the role encompasses the accurate and skillful reassembly of spare parts and components, ensuring they meet rigorous operational standards and contribute to the overall integrity of the repaired vehicle.

Key Responsibilities

• Comprehensive Vehicle Assessment for General Defects: Before any repair work commences, a critical initial step involves a thorough and systematic evaluation of vehicles for any and all general defects. This goes beyond the immediate reported issue and aims to identify underlying problems or potential future failures, ensuring a holistic approach to vehicle maintenance. This assessment requires a keen diagnostic ability and a comprehensive understanding of vehicle systems.
• Compilation of Detailed Technical Reports on Repair Scope: Based on the initial assessment, the technician will be responsible for compiling precise and comprehensive technical reports. These reports meticulously outline the identified issues, the proposed scope of repairs, and the rationale behind each recommended intervention. Such documentation is vital for transparency, accurate cost estimation, and effective communication with clients and management.
• Accurate Listing of Required Spare Parts: Following the technical report, the role demands the accurate and exhaustive listing of all spare parts necessary to complete the identified repairs. This requires an in-depth knowledge of vehicle components, access to parts catalogues, and an understanding of appropriate substitutions where applicable, all while ensuring adherence to quality and safety standards.
• Systematic Stripping of Vehicle Components: The technician will be skilled in the systematic and careful stripping down of various components from vehicles. This process requires precision to avoid damage to surrounding parts and a methodical approach to ensure all fasteners and connections are properly identified and managed for later reassembly.
• Thorough Cleaning and Assessment of Parts for Wear and Damages: Once stripped, each component undergoes a rigorous cleaning process, followed by a meticulous assessment for wear, fatigue, and any signs of damage. This critical step determines whether a part can be reused, requires reconditioning, or needs complete replacement, directly impacting the quality and reliability of the repair.
• Skillful Assembly of Stripped-Down Components with New and Used Parts: The reassembly phase requires a high degree of technical skill. The technician will expertly assemble the stripped-down components, seamlessly integrating new and appropriately assessed used parts. This process demands adherence to torque specifications, proper fitment, and ensuring all connections are secure and functional.
• Identification of Component Failure Systems and Collaborative Problem-Solving: A crucial aspect of this role involves the ability to identify specific systems contributing to component failure. This requires strong diagnostic skills and a methodical approach to troubleshooting. Once identified, the technician will actively engage in discussions with the team leader and workshop foreman, leveraging their combined expertise to understand the root cause. All findings, diagnoses, and proposed solutions must be accurately recorded on the job card for comprehensive record-keeping and future reference.
• Comprehensive Documentation of Tasks, Spares, and Time on Job Card: Meticulous record-keeping is paramount. For every vehicle serviced, the technician is responsible for listing all tasks performed, detailing the specific spare parts used, and accurately recording the time taken to complete each individual task. This detailed documentation on the job card is essential for billing, warranty purposes, performance analysis, and maintaining a complete service history for each vehicle.
• Service and Repair Vehicle to OEM Specifications and Schedules: A core responsibility is to ensure all servicing and repair work is performed strictly according to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) specifications and prescribed service schedules. This commitment to manufacturer guidelines guarantees optimal performance, safety, and compliance with warranty requirements.
• Participation in Standby/Breakdown After-Hour Duty: To ensure continuous operational support, the technician will be required to perform standby and breakdown duties outside of regular working hours. This demands flexibility, responsiveness, and a readiness to attend to urgent vehicle issues, often under pressure.
• Maintenance of Acceptable Productivity and Efficiency Levels: The role demands a consistent focus on maintaining acceptable and high levels of productivity and efficiency. This involves effective time management, prioritizing tasks, and utilizing resources optimally to complete repairs within set timelines without compromising on quality.
• Mentorship and Guidance for Repair Shop Assistants and Semi-Skilled Artisans: As a skilled artisan, the incumbent will play a vital role in the development of less experienced personnel. This includes monitoring their work, providing hands-on training, and offering guidance to repair shop assistants and semi-skilled artisans, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill improvement.
• Reporting of Unsafe Working Conditions/Equipment: Proactive identification and reporting of any unsafe working conditions or faulty equipment to team leaders and workshop foremen is a non-negotiable responsibility. This demonstrates a commitment to workplace safety for oneself and all colleagues.
• Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): The technician is expected to strictly adhere to all established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for every task and operation. This ensures consistency, quality control, and compliance with company policies and industry best practices.
• Assistance in Relevant Operations/Operational Functions: The role may require assisting in various other relevant operations or operational functions as dictated by immediate needs or management directives. This highlights the collaborative nature of the workshop environment and the need for adaptability.
• Maintenance of Professional Conduct: Throughout all interactions and tasks, the technician is expected to maintain the highest standards of professional conduct. This includes respectful communication, a positive attitude, and a commitment to representing the company professionally.
• Ensuring Dress Code Compliance with Company SOPs: Adherence to the company’s dress code, as outlined in the Standard Operating Procedures, is a requirement. This ensures a consistent and professional appearance within the workshop environment.
• Daily Maintenance of Housekeeping Standards: A daily commitment to maintaining high housekeeping standards within the workstation and communal areas is essential. This contributes to a safe, organized, and efficient working environment.
• Ensuring Health and Safety Standards are Maintained: Above all, the technician is responsible for actively ensuring that all health and safety standards are rigorously maintained at all times. This includes following safety protocols, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and promoting a safety-conscious culture.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric) Certificate: A foundational educational qualification demonstrating a strong basis in general academics and the ability to comprehend technical information.
• Red Seal Qualification: This nationally recognized certification is mandatory, signifying a high level of competency and expertise in the relevant trade. It provides assurance of comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for the role.
• 2+ Years of Related Experience (Advantageous): While not strictly mandatory, candidates possessing two or more years of practical, hands-on experience in a directly related automotive repair or maintenance environment will be given a significant advantage. This experience is highly valued as it indicates a proven track record, familiarity with common vehicle systems, and an ability to integrate quickly into the workshop team. Practical experience often translates to a deeper understanding of diagnostic procedures, efficient repair techniques, and a quicker adaptation to complex challenges.

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