Job Description

Job Summary 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. 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. 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. Solid experience (+5 years) with petrol and diesel engines, as well as small-engine maintenance, is a must. 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. 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 - ???? ???? ???? ??? ??? - ???? ??? ???? ??? , , ???? , , ??? ?? . One should see the opportunity to grow with the operation. Basic written reporting and admin skills (including stock for department) are required to ensure an effective workflow within the department. 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. 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. This is a physically demanding position that requires reliability, maturity, strong work ethic, and a calm, practical mind-set in a busy, dynamic setting. The successful applicant will report directly to the Maintenance Manager. / Clear criminal record; Excellent English communication skills, both written and verbal; Excellent employment track record - references will be checked; Basic computer literacy/experience with internet, word, excel and outlook; Valid driver's license - ideally code 8 or above; Matric / Grade 12 or equivalent (); Automotive / Diesel Mechanic Trade Test (Red Seal) ?? recognised NQF Level 4 - 5 qualification in mechanical or automotive repair (); Additional training in small engine maintenance, agricultural machinery, or welding (advantageous); Minimum 5 years' solid mechanical experience, preferably in remote or lodge environments; Must understand 5* lodge operational standards; Experience in training others in basic vehicle checks and safe equipment use; Experience operating heavy equipment - significant advantage; Experience in handling and maintaining chainsaws, brush cutters, and small engines; Welding; hydraulic, or light electrical skills; Firefighting training or firebreak-cutting experience; Familiarity with solar or off-grid systems. : 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. & : 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; Strong diagnostic skills and preventative maintenance planning in both short-term and long term written plans; Skilled in servicing and repairing lodge mechanical equipment including generators, chainsaws, brush cutters, and pumps; Ability to improvise and perform field repairs in remote conditions; Knowledge of bush workshop practices and sourcing parts; Ability to integrate into broader lodge projects once mechanical work is completed; Leadership and communication skills - ability to coordinate with other departments and maintain workflow when delegated; Experience in high-end lodge environments where presentation, discretion, and efficiency are essential; High level of practical problem-solving and ability to work independently; Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with suppliers and initiate the procurement of all stock required proactively. ??? Service; maintain, and repair all lodge vehicles including 4x4 game drive vehicles, tractors, TLBs, and utility vehicles; Service and repair lodge mechanical equipment including chainsaws, brush cutters, generators, pumps, and small engines - this includes hydraulic systems maintenance and troubleshooting. Conduct preventative maintenance and respond promptly to breakdowns, including field repairs during game drives; Maintain accurate records of all mechanical work; Maintain workshop areas in excellent condition, ensuring safety compliance; 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; Communicate clearly and respectfully with team members, management, and other departments. / / ???? Gross salary NEG DOE & qualifications (Please advise your salary expectation upon application); Split of pooled monthly gratuities once lodge becomes operational; Accommodation: Own private room and bathroom Uniform; Utilities including water, electricity and Wi-Fi; Meals - Currently meals are provided as a basic, simple offering. A dedicated staff chef will be in place once the property is fully operational. 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. Work cycle: 3 weeks on / 1 week off cycle. Plus 15 leave days per annum. ?? ???? 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; Must be willing to complete a mandatory character and personality assessment during the interview stage; Must be willing to undergo a polygraph examination prior to final appointment. ?? ?? ???: You MUST be in possession of a valid passport & existing work permit for RSA (No ZEP permits); TO APPLY Please submit your CV through this platform. VERY NB REGARDING YOUR CV PLEASE - It must be in an editable Word or PDF format only (no scanned copies); Must be fully updated as of this month, 2025 Include a RECENT head & shoulders photo; Clearly list all employment dates for each employer (month & year to month & year); Provide contactable references for all positions held in the last 10 years. In ADDITION ; please keep the following supporting documents ready to send promptly, IF REQUESTED ; 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). 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. 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.
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