About Unitrans

Unitrans  is a large, diversified contractual logistics and supply chain services company operating across sub-Saharan Africa. A subsidiary of South Africa’s KAP Industrial, the company offers a range of integrated services to industries such as mining, agriculture, retail, and petrochemicals. Unitrans Africa provides tailored, end-to-end supply chain solutions and is not a one-size-fits-all provider.

Job Advert Summary

The Semi-Skilled Mechanic is responsible for providing hands-on mechanical assistance in the maintenance, repair, and servicing of heavy commercial vehicles, transport fleets, and industrial or agricultural machinery used in transport, logistics, sugarcane haulage, mill-yard operations, and farming environments. The role supports the reliability, safety, and roadworthiness of trucks, trailers, and heavy equipment, ensuring optimal fleet availability and operational continuity. Working under the guidance of Senior Mechanics and the Workshop Foreman, the Semi-Skilled Mechanic performs routine preventative maintenance, assists in breakdown repairs, and supports both workshop and field-based mechanical operations.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

Minimum Grade 12

Technical or vocational training in:

• Mechanics
• Diesel engines
• Heavy equipment maintenance (advantageous)
• Basic safety training (PPE use, hazard identification, manual handling)
• 5 years’ experience in mechanical maintenance, workshop operations, or equipment servicing
• Experience in transport fleets, logistics, agricultural, sugarcane, or industrial environments preferred
• Exposure to trucks, trailers, heavy vehicles, or agricultural machinery advantageous

Technical Skills

Basic understanding of:

• Diesel engines
• Air and hydraulic brake systems
• Suspension, steering, and driveline components
• Ability to perform routine servicing and minor repairs under supervision
• Knowledge of workshop tools, equipment, and maintenance practices
• Basic maintenance record-keeping and parts tracking

Competencies

• Strong safety awareness and attention to detail
• Reliable, punctual, and disciplined
• Willingness to learn and follow technical instruction
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to operational demands
• Physically fit for manual and technical work

Duties & Responsibilities

Maintenance and Mechanical Repairs

Assist with the inspection, fault-finding, and repair of mechanical issues on heavy vehicles, trucks, trailers, and equipment
Perform routine preventive maintenance including:

• Lubrication and greasing
• Oil and fluid changes
• Filter replacements
• Basic mechanical adjustments

Support the replacement and repair of components such as:

• Brakes, air systems, suspension, and steering
• Hydraulics, hoses, and belts
• Engine and driveline components under supervision
• Assist with emergency roadside or field breakdowns to minimise operational downtime
• Heavy Vehicles, Trucks and Transport Fleet Support

Assist with maintenance and servicing of road-going transport vehicles, including:

• Long-haul and short-haul trucks
• Cane haulage trucks and interlink combinations
• Flatbeds, tippers, tankers, and logistics trailers
• Articulated vehicles and abnormal-load equipment (where applicable)

Support inspections and maintenance of braking, steering, suspension, and driveline systems
Assist in preparing trucks and trailers for:

• Daily dispatch and operations
• Roadworthiness inspections
• Preventative maintenance schedules
• Post-trip and post-season servicing

Heavy Equipment Support

Assist with maintenance and servicing of:

• Tractors, loaders, harvesters
• Forklifts and yard handling equipment
• Earth-moving and support machinery
• Trucks and Trailers
• Support senior mechanics in equipment preparation before operation and after use
• Assist with setting up and positioning machinery for safe operation

Workshop Support and Housekeeping

• Maintain workshop tools, equipment, and machinery in good working order
• Ensure the workshop, storage areas, and service bays are clean, organised, and free of hazards
• Assist with stock control and storage of tools, parts, and consumables
• Handle and store tools, oils, lubricants, and mechanical components safely

Field Support and Operational Assistance

• Provide mechanical assistance on-site at farms, depots, transport yards, and mill-yard locations
• Assist with moving, loading, unloading, and positioning heavy equipment and vehicle components
• Support logistics and harvesting operations during peak and emergency periods

Safety, Health and Compliance

• Strictly adhere to company health and safety policies and procedures
• Use prescribed personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times, including safety boots, gloves, goggles, and reflective vests
• Identify, report, and prevent unsafe conditions, defective machinery, or hazardous practices
• Apply safe lifting techniques and hazard awareness when handling heavy parts or equipment
• Comply with chemical handling and hazardous material procedures

Documentation and Reporting

• Accurately record maintenance activities, repairs completed, and parts used
• Report recurring breakdowns or mechanical issues to Senior Mechanics or the Workshop Foreman
• Notify supervisors of low spare-parts stock or equipment requiring further attention
• Assist with audits, inspections, and compliance checks

Communication and Teamwork

• Follow instructions from the Workshop Foreman, Workshop Manager, and Senior Mechanics
• Communicate clearly regarding vehicle condition, repair status, and downtime impacts
• Work collaboratively with mechanics, electricians, drivers, operators, and logistics teams
• Support efficient coordination across workshop, transport, and field operations