Technical Lead

Unilever · Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

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JOB PURPOSE

Unilever 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

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 BuildApp 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.

SHE Responsibilities

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.

Cost Management

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.

Quality Management

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.

Leadership

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.

Area Ownership & Maintenance Delivery

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.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

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

EXPERIENCE

Completed Millwright Apprenticeship with a valid Millwright Trade Test qualification.
Experience and knowledge of working in hazardous classified areas.
Willingness to participate in the standby roster and provide support on weekdays, weekends and public holidays, as required.
Willingness to work hands-on as an artisan, actively supporting maintenance, breakdowns, inspections, shutdowns and improvement activities.
Strong ownership of assigned equipment and production areas, with the ability to proactively manage issues through to resolution.
Strong troubleshooting and fault-finding skills across both mechanical and electrical disciplines.
A valid driver's licence and reliable transport to support standby and call-out requirements.

SKILLS