Job Description

Job Purpose

The Dayshift Fitter Assistant provides practical support to qualified Fitters and Mechanical Supervisors by assisting with mechanical maintenance, repairs, installations, and housekeeping activities during day operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of mechanical equipment within the zinc mining operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Safety, Health & Compliance
• Work in compliance with Mine Health and Safety legislation, mine standards, and mechanical safe‑work procedures.
• Follow instructions relating to lock‑out/tag‑out, isolations, permit‑to‑work, and working‑at‑heights or confined‑space procedures.
• Always wear prescribed PPE.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, oil spills, loose guards, and hazards.
• Participate in toolbox talks, risk assessments, and safety meetings.

Mechanical Maintenance Support

Assist fitters with:

• Planned and preventive mechanical maintenance
• Breakdown repairs under supervision
• Installation, removal, and replacement of components

Support work on equipment such as:

• Conveyors, rollers, idlers, and belt systems
• Pumps, gearboxes, bearings, seals, and couplings
• Chutes, wear plates, guards, and structural components
• Assist with stripping, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly of equipment.

Tools, Materials & Logistics

• Prepare and transport tools, spares, and materials to work areas.
• Assist with handling and positioning of mechanical components.
• Ensure tools, lifting equipment, and consumables are returned, cleaned, and stored correctly.

Housekeeping & Plant Standards

• Maintain clean and safe work areas in plant sections, workshops, and laydown areas.
• Assist with cleaning of equipment, walkways, sumps, and platforms.
• Help prevent oil leaks, spillage, and trip hazards.

Operational & Shutdown Support

• Assist during day‑shift breakdowns and urgent maintenance tasks.
• Support fitters during planned shutdowns and maintenance campaigns.
• Carry out tasks as directed to support maintenance schedules and production priorities.

Learning & Skills Development

• Gain practical on‑the‑job experience under supervision.
• Attend induction, safety training, and skills‑development programmes.
• Work towards increasing mechanical competency and potential artisan or trade training where applicable.

Administration & Reporting

• Assist with basic job cards, checklists, and maintenance records.
• Report defects, abnormal equipment conditions, or incomplete work to supervisors.
• Support basic spares identification and material handling records when required.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 10–12 or equivalent
• Basic understanding of workplace safety
• Ability to follow instructions and work procedures
• Medically fit for mine work

Advantageous

• Mechanical assistant or pre‑apprenticeship training
• Basic hand‑tool experience
• Exposure to mining or industrial plant environments

Experience Requirements

• 2 years experience in an industrial, mining, or mechanical environment preferred
• Suitable for entry‑level and developmental candidates

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Basic mechanical tool handling
• Identification of common mechanical components
• Awareness of safe lifting and manual handling techniques
• Understanding of housekeeping and equipment cleanliness

Behavioural Competencies

• Safety‑conscious and disciplined
• Willingness to learn and develop skills
• Good teamwork and communication skills
• Reliable, punctual, and physically capable
• Positive attitude and attention to detail