Machinist/Fitter

Job Description:

Our client is seeking an experienced Machinist/Fitter to join their dynamic team in Port Elizabeth. This is a hands-on position working on challenging marine and industrial projects. You'll work alongside a skilled team, including coded welders, fitters, and assistants, reporting to our senior machinist. The role combines precision machining, fitting, and occasional on-site work, with every day bringing different challenges.

This position offers long-term career prospects but begins with a 3-month contract to ensure mutual fit.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
Qualifications & Licenses

• Valid driver's license
• Trade Test Certificate (Fitter and Turner, Machinist, or Toolmaker)

Technical Skills & Experience

• Traditional Machining Foundation: Proven experience starting on manual mill and lathe, including large lathe operations
• CNC Machining: Progression to CNC machining (even limited experience acceptable if design skills are strong)
• CAD Design: Ability to draw and develop 3D CAD models in Fusion 360 or Inventor
• Post Processing: Understanding of CNC post-processing
• Tooling Knowledge: Selection of appropriate tools for job specifications and RPM requirements
• Specialized Operations: Experience using slotters for keyways
• Hand Skills: Excellent manual dexterity and craftsmanship
• Fitting Experience: Mandatory fitting skills including pump stripping, component machining, and reassembly
• Hydraulics: Working knowledge of hydraulic systems for machining repairs
• Rigging: Understanding of rigging principles and practice

Personal Attributes

• Energetic with good physical health and stamina
• Positive, can-do attitude
• Problem-solver who thrives on challenges
• Team player who works well in collaborative environments
• Adaptable and willing to take on varied tasks
• Free from negativity or toxic workplace behaviors

ADVANTAGEOUS (NOT ESSENTIAL)

• On-site line boring experience
• Internal orbital welding
• On-site journal machining
• External orbital welding with portable lathe
• Previous marine engineering experience

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES
Primary Duties

• Precision machining on large-scale CNC and manual equipment
• CAD design and drawing development
• Pump stripping, repair machining, and reassembly
• Hydraulic system repairs and maintenance
• On-site work at marine and industrial locations
• Fitting, assembly, and installation work
• Tool selection and workshop planning

Additional Duties

When machining work is not available, you'll contribute to other workshop activities, including fitting, rigging, painting, and general workshop tasks. Flexibility and a willingness to "get stuck in" are essential.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Location: Port Elizabeth (local candidates or those with existing support structures preferred)
• Hours: Standard working hours plus overtime as required
• Overtime: Regulated extra pay rates for weekday and weekend overtime
• On-Site Work: Regular travel to client sites for installations and repairs
• Team Structure: Second most senior position alongside three fitters at the same level, with one junior machinist reporting to you
• Environment: Workshop and on-site marine/industrial locations

Required Skills:

Flexibility
Offers
3D
Drawing
Overtime
Operations
Welding
Structures
Painting
Team Player
Travel
Specifications
Planning
Maintenance
Design
Engineering

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