Technical Lead, Manufacturing / Production, Quality Engineering
Job in
Durban, 3611, South Africa
Listed on 2026-10-18
Listing for:
Unilever
Full Time
position Listed on 2026-10-18
Job specializations:
-
Manufacturing / Production
Quality Engineering, Maintenance Technician / Mechanic -
Engineering
Quality Engineering, Maintenance Technician / Mechanic
Job Description & How to Apply Below
Join us as:
Technical Lead
Function: Supply Chain
Reports to: Site Engineer
Scope: Local
Location: Phoenix Factory
Terms & Conditions: Full time, standby and call-out support as required
JOB PURPOSEUnilever is the place where you can bring your purpose to life through the work that you do, creating a better business and a better world. If you are passionate about improving equipment performance, driving preventative maintenance, and leading focused improvement initiatives in a manufacturing environment, then this role is for you!
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Cell Maintenance Activities- Develop and execute equipment maintenance plans with the support of the Maintenance Planner and Focused Technician.
- Analyse and repair equipment-related losses within the cell.
- Apply technical skills and expertise to ensure delivery of cell performance targets.
- Develop and maintain machine ledgers and lead the execution of activities.
- Close out actions and review EWOs and Kaizens.
- Utilise DFOS and Build App digital tools to measure cell performance.
- Roll out the condition monitoring programme for the cell and complete relevant reporting.
- Verify the asset register and advise the Capex Lead on equipment end-of-life.
- Engage with OEMs on health audits, resolving complex breakdowns and building capability within the cell.
- Improve AM activities such as changeovers, cleaning, lubrication and standardised start-ups.
- Follow up on rotables sent to suppliers for repairs.
- Prepare spares for planned PM activities.
- Ensure equipment literature and drawings are updated as upgrades are completed.
- Execute Capex activities within the cell, compile and follow up on punch lists until handover is complete.
- Ensure Unilever machinery safety standards are maintained and that all legal and statutory maintenance is completed to the standards required by Unilever and applicable legislation.
- Manage safety tags.
- Represent the area of responsibility in audits and investigations.
- Utilise appropriate safety and environmental procedures for people, processes, materials, products and equipment to ensure a safe working environment for the team.
- Maintain full knowledge of the workplace and associated hazards.
- Prioritise activities to ensure budgets within the scope of responsibility are met.
- Reduce costs associated with waste and minimise the impact on health, safety and the environment through effective waste and hazardous material management.
- Ensure effective preventative maintenance standards are in place to prolong the lifespan of equipment and parts, thereby reducing costs.
- Propose and lead cost-saving projects.
- Ensure all aspects of quality within the area of responsibility are managed in accordance with local quality procedures to protect and promote the brand and product.
- Represent the area of responsibility in audits and investigations.
- Take end-to-end accountability for cell performance relating to PM activities and breakdowns to achieve set OEE targets.
- Develop the technical skills and capabilities of Operators.
- Manage stores withdrawals and PRs within the set budget.
- Stand in for the Engineering Lead as and when required.
- Measure performance against standard KPIs, including MTTR, percentage of breakdowns and adherence to budget.
- Make agile decisions on cell-related performance issues.
- Coach shift artisans and mentor apprentices.
- Influence Production Managers and Engineers regarding engineering activities and strategy within the cell.
- Maintain a harmonious working environment and build a strong performance culture within the area of responsibility.
- Take end-to-end ownership of assigned production and utility areas.
- Execute maintenance activities and ensure equipment, housekeeping, safety and reliability standards are maintained.
- Coordinate spares, materials, contractor services and maintenance activities required to sustain performance.
- Diagnose and resolve equipment faults using structured troubleshooting techniques.
- Support automation and control system fault resolution through collaboration with specialist service providers.
- Develop technical capability through coaching, mentoring and knowledge sharing.
- N4-N6 qualification and a valid Millwright Trade Test, with 3-5 years’ experience in a production environment within FMCG or heavy manufacturing.
- BSc /Eng –Degree or BTech degree with 5 years experience in production environment. (Preferred)
- Completed Millwright…
Position Requirements
5+ Years
work experience
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