Factory Team Leader

About the role

The Factory Team Leader will oversee the operation and maintenance of key production equipment within Tongaat Hulett’s sugar manufacturing complex at Felixton. Reporting to the Factory Foreman, the role combines hands‑on technical work with supervision of a small team to ensure continuous, safe, and efficient plant performance.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain all assigned machinery in optimal condition and achieve 100 % equipment availability.
• Provide welding, rigging and boilermaking services to all departments.
• Fabricate and service cane‑preparation knives, hammers and other specialised tools.
• Authorize store withdrawals and prepare purchase requisitions for the Plant Engineer.
• Keep tool registers up‑to‑date, ensure subordinates wear correct PPE and follow Safe Work Procedures.
• Set daily tasks for the team, monitor completion of scheduled maintenance and drive compliance with standards.
• Lead, motivate and develop team members, fostering a safety‑first culture.
• Participate in plant upgrades and project initiatives under the direction of the Plant Engineer.

Required profile

• Minimum N3 Mechanical and Trade Test qualification.
• Completed apprenticeship as a Mechanical Fitter.
• Proven maintenance and production experience in heavy‑industry environments.
• Ability to work under pressure, maintain sober habits and interact effectively with personnel at all levels.

Required skills

• Mechanical fitting
• Welding
• Rigging
• Boilermaking
• Fabrication
• Industrial maintenance