Universal Paper & Plastic Diesel Mechanic Apprentice

Universal Paper & Plastic is offering an opportunity for candidates interested in developing their skills in diesel mechanics and vehicle maintenance. The Diesel Mechanic Apprentice position is suited to individuals with relevant technical training who want to gain practical experience working with forklifts, reach trucks, fleet vehicles, diesel generators, tractors and other equipment.

The role involves inspecting vehicles and machinery, identifying mechanical faults, performing servicing and preventative maintenance, replacing damaged components and maintaining accurate service records. Apprentices will also be expected to follow workplace safety procedures, maintain good housekeeping standards and work effectively with other members of the maintenance team.

One of the most important requirements is that applicants must have N2 in a related trade theory and institutional workshop training. The employer explicitly states that workshop training is non-negotiable, so candidates should confirm that they meet this requirement before applying.

The advertised monthly pay is R8,000 to R9,000.

About the Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship

The position provides exposure to the maintenance and repair of different types of vehicles and industrial equipment. The successful candidate will be involved in inspecting, servicing and repairing petrol, diesel and electric forklifts, reach trucks, fleet vehicles, diesel generators and tractors.

The role also involves learning how to identify mechanical and electrical faults, maintain equipment availability and ensure that vehicles and machinery remain safe and functional.

Although the position is described as an apprenticeship, the supplied advert does not specify the formal apprenticeship duration, registration arrangements or the name of an associated occupational qualification. Candidates should confirm these details with the employer.

Minimum Requirements

1. N2 qualification

Applicants must have N2 in a related trade theory. Candidates should ensure that their qualification is relevant to the diesel mechanic or associated mechanical trade.

2. Institutional workshop training

Institutional workshop training is compulsory.

The employer explicitly identifies this as a non-negotiable requirement. Applicants should therefore have completed the relevant practical workshop training at an institution and be able to provide evidence if requested.

Candidates who have N2 theory but have not completed the required institutional workshop training should not assume that they qualify.

3. Relevant technical knowledge

The advert lists several areas of knowledge and ability relevant to the role, including:

• Vehicle systems and diesel technology.
• Mechanical aptitude and equipment management.
• Electrical and hydraulic systems.
• Occupational hazards and workplace safety.
• Basic design principles and technical procedures.
• Analytical, mathematical and problem-solving skills.

Applicants should be prepared to demonstrate their existing technical knowledge and willingness to develop further practical skills.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The Diesel Mechanic Apprentice will assist with vehicle servicing, equipment maintenance, repairs, workshop operations and safety compliance.

1. Vehicle inspections and fault diagnosis

The role involves determining the condition of vehicles and equipment through inspections and diagnostic tests.

Responsibilities include identifying worn or damaged parts, investigating mechanical problems and helping determine the repairs needed to return equipment to service.

2. Preventative maintenance and servicing

The successful candidate will help keep equipment available for use by completing preventative maintenance schedules and installing component or part upgrades where required.

Equipment covered by the advert includes:

• Petrol, diesel and electric forklifts.
• Reach trucks.
• Fleet vehicles.
• Diesel generators.
• Tractors.

This exposure can help apprentices develop experience across different vehicle and equipment systems.

3. Repairs and component replacement

The role includes assisting with the removal, repair, adjustment, overhaul, assembly, disassembly and replacement of major assemblies, sub-assemblies, components, parts and systems.

These tasks require attention to detail, mechanical aptitude and the ability to follow technical instructions.

4. Maintenance records and reporting

The apprentice will track the time spent working on each vehicle and record repairs according to the relevant job requirements.

Other responsibilities include:

• Maintaining accurate service and repair records.
• Reporting completed work to the manager.
• Explaining differences between estimated and actual repair times.
• Recording servicing and maintenance activities.
• Preparing the required technical reports.

Accurate documentation helps the maintenance team monitor equipment condition, plan future servicing and track repair costs.

5. Workshop and inventory management

The role also involves helping keep workshop equipment operational by following operating instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns and supporting preventative maintenance.

The apprentice may assist with monitoring supplies, checking stock received and arranging outsourced repairs when necessary. Responding to service calls is also listed among the duties.

6. Cleaning and equipment presentation

Maintaining vehicle and equipment appearance forms part of the role. Duties may include cleaning, washing and painting vehicles or equipment as required.

The employer also expects high housekeeping standards throughout the workshop and maintenance areas.

Safety Responsibilities

Safety is an important part of the position. The advert requires adherence to safe working procedures and the immediate identification and reporting of unsafe practices.

Responsibilities include:

• Following established safety procedures.
• Ensuring the appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Confirming that employees are inducted as required.
• Maintaining high housekeeping standards.
• Reporting unsafe practices immediately.
• Supporting housekeeping improvement plans.
• Completing monthly safety documentation.
• Contributing to the employer’s zero-injury objective.

Candidates should understand that workshop safety is essential when working with heavy vehicles, hydraulic systems, electrical components and industrial equipment.

Skills and Personal Attributes

Universal Paper & Plastic lists a broad range of skills relevant to the position. Suitable candidates should demonstrate:

• Strong mechanical aptitude.
• Knowledge of vehicle systems and diesel technology.
• Familiarity with electrical and hydraulic systems.
• The ability to follow and interpret instructions.
• Good written and verbal communication.
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• Time and task management.
• Organisation and attention to detail.
• Teamwork and interpersonal skills.
• A positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• The ability to perform manual work and meet the role’s physical requirements.
• Flexibility to work an irregular schedule where required.
• Professional judgement and technical reporting skills.

Salary: R8,000 to R9,000 Per Month

The advertised pay range for the Universal Paper & Plastic Diesel Mechanic Apprentice position is R8,000 to R9,000 per month.

The supplied advert does not clarify whether this amount is gross or net pay, or whether additional benefits are included. Candidates should confirm the full remuneration package and working arrangements with the employer during recruitment.

How to Apply for the Universal Paper & Plastic Diesel Mechanic Apprentice Position

The supplied advert does not provide an application link, recruitment email address or closing date.

Interested candidates should locate the vacancy through Universal Paper & Plastic’s official recruitment channels and confirm the correct application procedure.

Before applying, prepare an updated CV that clearly highlights:

• Your N2 qualification in a related trade theory.
• Your completed institutional workshop training.
• Any practical exposure to diesel mechanics or vehicle maintenance.
• Experience with forklifts, reach trucks, fleet vehicles, generators or tractors, if applicable.
• Relevant technical skills, safety knowledge and workshop experience.

Include copies of your qualifications and evidence of workshop training if requested by the employer. Follow the official application instructions and do not send documents to unverified contacts.

Closing Date: Not Specified

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