Job Description

Job Summary
p
Safari JOBS is recruiting for an experienced hands-on Mechanic to join the team at a renowned game lodge situated in a spectacular wilderness area of Limpopo.
/p
p
/p
p
This is a full-time opportunity to become a key member of a high-performing operations team within one of South Africa's most scenic and well-established private game areas.
/p
p
/p
p
We are seeking a candidate with a strong mechanical background, capable of servicing and repairing a wide range of lodge vehicles and mechanical equipment, including 4x4 game drive and farm vehicles, tractors, TLBs, hydraulic systems, generators, chainsaws, brush cutters, firefighting equipment, pumps etc.
/p
p
/p
p
Solid experience (+5 years) with petrol and diesel engines, as well as small-engine maintenance, is a must.
/p
p
/p
p
Vehicles and equipment must not only run well but also be presentable for guests - polished wood, clean canvas, and tidy finishes are expected from the mechanical department.
/p
p
/p
p
As the lodge is not yet fully operational, the current workload is approximately 40 - 50% of what it will be in the approximate next two years a critical aspect of the role includes - ???? ???? ???? ??? ??? - ???? ??? ???? ??? , , ???? , , ??? ?? .
strong
/strong
One should see the opportunity to grow with the operation.
/p
p
/p
p
Basic written reporting and admin skills (including stock for department) are required to ensure an effective workflow within the department.
/p
p
/p
p
As one of the right hands to the Maintenance Manager, you will need the ability to work independently, lead by example, and collaborate closely with the maintenance and operations teams.
/p
p
/p
p
The successful candidate must be confident and capable of stepping into broader lodge operational tasks when required, demonstrating initiative, adaptability, and a proactive, solutions-driven approach.
/p
p
/p
p
This is a physically demanding position that requires reliability, maturity, strong work ethic, and a calm, practical mind-set in a busy, dynamic setting.
/p
p
/p
p
The successful applicant will report directly to the Maintenance Manager.
/p
p
/p
p
/
/p
p
Clear criminal record;
/p
p
Excellent English communication skills, both written and verbal;
/p
p
Excellent employment track record - references will be checked;
/p
p
Basic computer literacy/experience with internet, word, excel and outlook;
/p
p
Valid driver's license - ideally code 8 or above;
/p
p
Matric / Grade 12 or equivalent ();
/p
p
Automotive / Diesel Mechanic Trade Test (Red Seal) ?? recognised NQF Level 4 - 5 qualification in mechanical or automotive repair ();
/p
p
Additional training in small engine maintenance, agricultural machinery, or welding (advantageous);
/p
p
Minimum 5 years' solid mechanical experience, preferably in remote or lodge environments;
/p
p
Must understand 5* lodge operational standards;
/p
p
Experience in training others in basic vehicle checks and safe equipment use;
/p
p
Experience operating heavy equipment - significant advantage;
/p
p
Experience in handling and maintaining chainsaws, brush cutters, and small engines;
/p
p
Welding, hydraulic, or light electrical skills;
/p
p
Firefighting training or firebreak-cutting experience;
/p
p
Familiarity with solar or off-grid systems.
/p
p
/p
p
: Professional work ethic, a progressive mind-set, must demonstrate responsible personal habits (no excessive alcohol consumption), mature and accountable to manage your own personal logistics responsibilities; Willingness to work flexible hours and live onsite in a remote lodge setting.
/p
p
/p
p
& :
/p
p
Proficiency in servicing and repairing petrol & diesel engines, 4x4 drivetrains, and manual transmissions; Must also have strong working knowledge of TLB operation and hydraulic system diagnostics and repairs;
/p
p
Strong diagnostic skills and preventative maintenance planning in both short-term and long term written plans;
/p
p
Skilled in servicing and repairing lodge mechanical equipment including generators, chainsaws, brush cutters, and pumps;
/p
p
Ability to improvise and perform field repairs in remote conditions;
/p
p
Knowledge of bush workshop practices and sourcing parts;
/p
p
Ability to integrate into broader lodge projects once mechanical work is completed;
/p
p
Leadership and communication skills - ability to coordinate with other departments and maintain workflow when delegated;
/p
p
Experience in high-end lodge environments where presentation, discretion, and efficiency are essential;
/p
p
High level of practical problem-solving and ability to work independently;
/p
p
Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with suppliers and initiate the procurement of all stock required proactively.
/p
p
/p
p
???
/p
p
Service, maintain, and repair all lodge vehicles including 4x4 game drive vehicles, tractors, TLBs, and utility vehicles;
/p
p
Service and repair lodge mechanical equipment including chainsaws, brush cutters, generators, pumps, and small engines - this includes hydraulic systems maintenance and troubleshooting.
/p
p
Conduct preventative maintenance and respond promptly to breakdowns, including field repairs during game drives;
/p
p
Maintain accurate records of all mechanical work;
/p
p
Maintain workshop areas in excellent condition, ensuring safety compliance;
/p
p
Once mechanical work is complete, assist with other priority lodge projects such as: road grading and maintenance; fence repair and maintenance; building and structural upkeep; bush clearing and alien species removal; seasonal tasks including firebreak preparation and erosion control;
/p
p
Communicate clearly and respectfully with team members, management, and other departments.
/p
p
/p
p
/ / ????
/p
p
Gross salary NEG DOE & qualifications (Please advise your salary expectation upon application);
/p
p
Split of pooled monthly gratuities once lodge becomes operational;
/p
p
Accommodation: Own private room and bathroom
/p
p
Uniform;
/p
p
Utilities including water, electricity and Wi-Fi;
/p
p
Meals - Currently meals are provided as a basic, simple offering. A dedicated staff chef will be in place once the property is fully operational.
/p
p
/p
p
Please note that the following are not included in the employment package and remain the responsibility of the employee: laundry, medical aid, provident fund, and other personal expenses.
/p
p
/p
p
Work cycle: 3 weeks on / 1 week off cycle.
/p
p
Plus 15 leave days per annum.
/p
p
/p
p
?? ????
/p
p
Must have access to Zoom for the initial interview - those who progress beyond this stage will be invited for an in-person interview at the property;
/p
p
Must be willing to complete a mandatory character and personality assessment during the interview stage;
/p
p
Must be willing to undergo a polygraph examination prior to final appointment.
/p
p
?? ?? ???: You MUST be in possession of a valid passport & existing work permit for RSA (No ZEP permits);
/p
p
/p
p
strong
TO APPLY
/strong
/p
p
Please submit your CV through this platform.
/p
p
/p
p
strong
VERY NB REGARDING YOUR CV PLEASE -
/strong
/p
p
It must be in an editable
strong
Word or PDF format only
/strong
(no scanned copies); Must be fully updated
strong
as of this month, 2025
/strong
/p
p
Include a
strong
RECENT head & shoulders photo;
/strong
Clearly list
strong
all employment dates
/strong
for each employer (month & year to month & year); Provide
strong
contactable references
/strong
for all positions held in the last 10 years.
/p
p
/p
p
strong
In ADDITION
/strong
, please keep the following
strong
supporting documents
/strong
ready to send promptly,
strong
IF REQUESTED
/strong
, after receipt of your CV: 1. Written reference letters (if available), 2. Relevant qualification copies; 3. Driver's Licence and/or PrDP; 4. ID/Passport; 5. Valid work permit/visa (if applicable).
/p
p
/p
p
Safari JOBS thanks you in advance for applying for this vacancy. Should you not hear from us within 7 working days please kindly consider your application unsuccessful for this particular position.
/p
p
We encourage you to keep an eye on this platform & our other social media pages for future opportunities that may align with your skills and interests.
/p
HotelJobs
Recruiter

Skills Required