Technical Lead - Equipment Maintenance

About the role

Unilever is hiring a Technical Lead within its Supply Chain function, based at the Phoenix Factory in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The position reports to the Site Engineer and is a local scope, full-time role requiring standby and call-out support as needed. The ideal candidate is passionate about improving equipment performance, driving preventative maintenance and leading improvement initiatives in a manufacturing environment.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute equipment maintenance plans, analyse and repair equipment losses, and deliver cell performance targets
• Maintain machine ledgers, close out actions, review EWOs and Kaizens, and use DFOS and BuildApp to measure cell performance
• Roll out the condition monitoring programme, verify the asset register and advise the Capex Lead on equipment end-of-life
• Work with OEMs on health audits, resolve complex breakdowns and improve AM activities such as changeovers, cleaning, lubrication and standardised start-ups
• Manage machinery safety standards, safety tags, audits and investigations, and follow safety and environmental procedures
• Prioritise activities to meet budgets, propose and lead cost-saving projects, and manage waste and hazardous materials
• Ensure quality is managed according to local procedures and represent the area in audits and investigations
• Take end-to-end accountability for cell performance and OEE targets, develop operators' skills, coach shift artisans and mentor apprentices
• Own assigned production and utility areas, coordinate spares, materials and contractors, and support automation and control system fault resolution

Required profile

• 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 with 5 years' experience preferred
• Completed Millwright apprenticeship and experience in hazardous classified areas
• Willingness to join the standby roster and work hands-on as an artisan, including standby on weekdays, weekends and public holidays
• Valid driver's licence and reliable transport

Required skills

• SAP ERP experience
• DFOS/BuildApp experience
• UMS/WCM/TPM and Lean manufacturing experience
• Strong troubleshooting skills across mechanical and electrical disciplines