Semi-Skilled Mechanic at Unitrans

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.


Minimum Requirements

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 ttrucks, 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 tperform 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 tdetail
Reliable, punctual, and disciplined
Willingness tlearn and follow technical instruction
Strong teamwork and communication skills
Ability twork under pressure and adapt toperational demands
Physically fit for manual and technical work


Duties & Responsibilities

Key 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 tminimise 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 tcompany 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 tSenior 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


Closing Date


2026/06/26