Principal Technician
University of Kwazulu-Natal · Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Stop applying one at a time.
JobAlertsZA auto-applies to South African jobs like this one for you, overnight. Upload your CV once — we do the applying.
Start free — we apply for you →Job description
- The Aerospace Systems Research Institute ASRI within the School of Engineering, requires an experienced 5-Axis CNC Machinist to join our precision machine shop, working on complex components for aerospace and high-precision industrial applications
- The incumbent must have strong understanding of GD&T and ability to work to tight tolerances, a self-starter who can manage production processes independently and strong troubleshooting and problem-solving ability
- The incumbent will be responsible for programming, setting up, and operating 5-axis CNC milling machines DN Solutions/Doosan or similar. S/he will also be responsible for interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T callouts to produce parts to specification and maintaining tight dimensional tolerances ±0.01 mm or better.
- Further, s/he will be responsible for troubleshooting machining, tooling, and setup issues to optimise quality and cycle time and managing their own setups and workflow with minimal supervision.
- In addition, the incumbent will perform in-process and final inspection using appropriate measuring equipment and maintain and care for machines, tooling, and workholding.
- The incumbent be responsible for programming, setting up, and operating 5-axis CNC milling machines to manufacture precision components to tight tolerances. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who takes pride in accuracy, problem-solving, and seeing a job through from drawing to finished part.
- Experience with precision/mould tooling, jigs, fixtures, or similarly exacting work will be an advantage.
- The incumbent will report to the Senior Engineer of the Aerospace Systems Research Institute.
Minimum requirements
- Matric/N3 plus 3-year Mechanical Engineering qualification or Toolmaker Trade qualification
Five 5years experience which must include
- CNC machining experience, including demonstrated 5-axis programming and setup
- Experience across multiple machine platforms mills, lathes, multi-axis
- Experience with Fanuc controllers
- Proficiency in CAM software such as Fusion 360, Siemens NX
The closing date for receipt of applications is 14 August 2026.