Chief Mechanic

Key Responsibilities: Maintenance and Repair: Oversee the repair and maintenance of estate vehicles, machinery, and equipment (tractors, harvesters, trucks, and generators). Diagnose mechanical issues and perform necessary repairs promptly to avoid downtime. Plan and implement preventive maintenance schedules to minimize breakdowns and ensure longevity of equipment. Ensure all equipment is in good working condition and meets safety standards. Perform routine inspections and troubleshoot any mechanical problems that arise. Workshop Management: Supervise mechanics and workshop staff, providing guidance, training, and support as needed. Allocate tasks within the workshop and ensure that repairs and maintenance tasks are completed efficiently. Manage inventory of spare parts, tools, and equipment required for repairs and ensure timely procurement. Maintain an organized, clean, and safe workshop environment. Keep accurate records of all repairs, maintenance schedules, and inventory usage. Budget and Cost Control: Assist in preparing and managing the maintenance budget for the estate’s machinery and vehicles. Monitor and control repair and maintenance costs, ensuring efficient use of resources. Recommend cost-effective solutions for mechanical issues and suggest improvements to reduce downtime. Health and Safety Compliance: Ensure all workshop activities adhere to health and safety regulations. Conduct safety checks on machinery and equipment to prevent accidents and injuries. Promote a culture of safety among the workshop team, including the use of proper protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety protocols. Coordination with Estate Operations: Work closely with the estate management and operations team to ensure machinery availability and readiness for daily field activities (e.g., harvesting, transporting). Coordinate with suppliers and contractors for the procurement of parts and any external repair services required. Provide technical support to estate workers in the operation of machinery and equipment. Team Leadership and Development: Lead and manage a team of mechanics and workshop staff, assigning tasks and monitoring performance. Provide training and upskilling opportunities to mechanics to ensure high competency levels. Conduct regular performance reviews and provide feedback to the workshop team.