Job at a glance
RCL Foods, one of South Africa's leading food manufacturers, is seeking a skilled and experienced Millwright Artisan to join their Pies division based in Krugersdorp, Gauteng. This is a pivotal hands-on role within a fast-paced FMCG production environment, where your expertise will directly contribute to the reliable operation of critical manufacturing equipment. As a Millwright at RCL Foods, you will be entrusted with the upkeep, servicing, and maintenance of a wide range of mechanical and electrical systems, ensuring production lines run safely and at peak efficiency.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a trade-tested artisan who thrives in a technically demanding environment and is committed to food safety, engineering excellence, and continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair failures on production equipment to swiftly restore full operational functionality and minimise downtime. Execute planned preventative maintenance programmes, including daily machine inspections, defect reporting, and prompt resolution to keep all equipment in optimal condition.
Conduct thorough root cause analyses following equipment failures to identify underlying issues and implement corrective measures to prevent recurrence. Complete job cards accurately and timeously, capturing all relevant maintenance data and ensuring full traceability of work carried out. Perform fault-finding, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems and apparatus, including basic PLC fault-finding and adherence to Standard Maintenance Procedures.
Carry out mechanical fitting tasks including bearing and shaft replacements, motor repairs, gearbox fault-finding, V-belt and chain tightening, conveyor construction, hydraulic power pack maintenance, and TIG/arc welding (primarily stainless steel). Operate machinery such as a lathe, hydraulic press, drill press, and plate bender for fabrication and refurbishment of components such as shafts, bushes, pins, and rollers.
Support the production team during machine start-ups and set-ups, assist with spiral freezer blockages and repairs, and plan spares procurement and pre-scheduled maintenance activities with service providers. Ensure all equipment is made electrically and mechanically safe before commencing work, and verify that all safety equipment is functional at all times in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Drive continuous and focused improvements on machines and processes, contributing to a culture of operational excellence within the engineering team. Requirements & Qualifications N3 – N6 or NCV Technical qualification in a relevant engineering discipline (Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics). Recognised Millwright Trade Test certificate — this is a non-negotiable requirement. Minimum of 2 to 5 years' post-trade experience as an Artisan within the FMCG manufacturing industry.
Proven knowledge of conveyor systems, wire mesh and modular belts, bearings, and the use of mechanical and electrical tools. Familiarity with PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and VSDs (Variable Speed Drives), as well as AC and DC machines. Working knowledge of ammonia and glycol refrigeration plants, boilers, and air compressors. Hands-on experience with food production machinery including ovens, flow wrappers, cooking pots, cuber machines, tumbler machines, X-ray and metal detection systems, pie lines, spiral freezers, mixers, vacuum pumps, and DEJONG and Handtmann equipment.
Sound understanding of Food Safety and hygiene requirements applicable to an FMCG production environment. Basic knowledge of lubrication types and their correct application in a production setting. Thorough knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety Act requirements and a demonstrated commitment to safe working practices. How to Apply Interested candidates who meet the above requirements are encouraged to apply before the closing date of 17 September 2026 .
Submit your application through the official RCL F