MFC Maintenance Specialist Instrumentation
Key Skills
Job Description
PURPOSE OF THE JOB To continuously improve the Asset Capability Assurance process in a safe manner, through Root Cause Failure Analysis on high frequency and high-cost breakdowns and analysing maintenance performance. Maintain all measurement, automation and control related equipment to ensure minimal production downtime and maximize production while utilizing automation technology to improve safety and efficiency. SAFETY, HEALTH, ENVIRONMENT AND QUALITY Identify and assess level of issue-based risk exposures in area of responsibility by considering exposures to business, financial, legal issues, people, equipment, material, environment, processes, etc. Consider the level of risk, apply mitigation and implement control measures for residual risk (set objectives, minimum requirements, etc.) Manage SHEQ compliance within the Process through effective use of the Toolbox Utilise the Integrated Management System (IMS) to initiate, investigate and report SHEQ status PEOPLE Supervise The Team Ensure an enabling climate/culture Maintain labour stability by minimising labour turnover Labour complement in line with budget Ensure IDP’s are linked to performance results and implemented as per plan Manage performance against set targets and competencies Conduct career discussions and implement actions with all identified talent (quarterly) Ensure discipline is maintained (absenteeism, lateness, overtime, misconduct, etc.) Coach and counsel people to ensure improved performance levels Conduct recruitment interviews CUSTOMERS Ensure Customer Satisfaction Proactively seek ways of improving equipment reliability, planned maintenance and physical maintenance in the plant BUSINESS PROCESSES Maintenance Support and Data Analysis Initiate task list reviews Develop maintenance plans (frequencies, maintainable items) Initiate plan review and review maintenance plans React swiftly to any plant stoppages involving instrumentation equipment or automation faults, report all stoppages to the Superintendent Backup all instrumentation software programs and ensure availability thereof Ensure plant availability Perform Pareto analyses, correlation analyses and report top 5 chronic losses Interview production personnel with regards to trips and artisans with regards to repetitive trips Solve Problems And Implement Solutions Arrange RCFA investigation and facilitate the problem-solving session Analyse alternative solutions and recommend best solution/s based on: HSEC (Health, safety, environmental, community) impact Cost - risk - benefit analysis on key equipment performance parameters Cost benefit to the organisation Recommend best solutions to problems through the change management process Record actions arising from RCA Monitor recurring failures related to implemented RCA's (KPI until close out) Track Condition Monitoring results Analyse equipment failure history Log equipment problems identified for further action Develop a list of clear problem statements and business cases for problems requiring RCA Monitor and share Company-wide similarities / learning opportunities by using the Intranet Sites and SAP History Monitor and advertise latest maintenance and technology developments Develop, maintain and monitor adherence to maintenance standards and specifications Work Analysis, Contractor And Rotables Management Ensure the latest techniques are being applied with respect to NDT (Non-destructive testing) and condition monitoring Advise in building reliability and maintainability in the design of new or modified equipment Develop detailed Scope of Work (SOW) for defined scope jobs Maintain SOW data base (Specifications, Quality Plan, Witness points) Operational Provide regular feedback to the Plant Superintendent Monitor and maintain Chromedoc procedures Check uptime data, investigate and take corrective action where necessary Ensure that correct spares (including relevant PLC spares) and adequate quantities, are kept in stock Compile preventative maintenance schedule on instrumentation, measurement, control and communication equipment Authenticate PLC programs to ensure adequate back-up facilities are available Provide advice and support to team members with troubleshooting and suspected automation related defects Perform mean time between failure calculations and take steps to solve down-time problems Implement modifications according to procedure Monitor progress and activity on all systems, both during start up and during operation Monitor data/ program integrity Provide specialised technical advice/ assistance to customers and team members Log engineering requests on any plant deficiencies identified Maintain internal CCTV monitoring system and network GROWTH Manage Continuous Improvement through Operational Excellence Minimum Qualifications And Experience Degree or National Diploma in Electrical (Light Current), Electronic, Industrial Automation Engineering or equivalent External: 6 years’ relevant experience Internal: 4 years’ relevant CU experience Valid Driver’s License (minimum B/ Code 8) Advantageous Experience Experience on the Siemens PLC’s, SCADA and operating systems Relevant Plant experience Experience with IT systems and networking Experience on Profibus Networks Behavioural Competencies Safety Leadership Innovation Planning, Organising & Control Results Orientation Problem Solving & Decision Making Relating & Networking Change Leadership Business Acumen Workplace Competencies Demonstrate an understanding of Process Control and I/O Systems Demonstrate an understanding of Siemens PLC and SCADA Systems (PCS7), PID control and Profibus Networks Demonstrate an understanding of PID control Working Conditions Standby, overtime, travel and carry a legal appointment Samancor Chrome shall apply Employment Equity Principles as set out in the Company's Employment Equity Policy. Samancor Chrome is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from suitably qualified individuals. CLOSING DATE: 1 October 2026 #RB
Core Responsibilities
Maintain and improve instrumentation, measurement, control, and automation equipment to maximize plant availability, safety, and production. Lead failure analysis and maintenance performance improvements, supervise the team, and ensure compliance with safety, quality, and maintenance standards.
Requirements
Requires a degree or national diploma in electrical (light current), electronic, industrial automation engineering, or an equivalent qualification, plus six years of relevant external experience or four years of relevant internal company experience. A valid driver’s license is required; Siemens PLC and SCADA experience, plant experience, IT and networking knowledge, and Profibus experience are advantageous.
About Samancor Chrome
Industry: Mining
Company size: 5,001-10,000 employees
OUR BUSINESS Samancor Chrome is a progressive, innovative company which, along with making a significant contribution to the South African economy and mining sector, is actively striving to be an employer of choice. COMMITTED TO ZERO HARM We continuously strive for Zero Harm to our people and our environment and we are committed to improving the quality of life of people and communities in and around our operations.