Apprentice Fitter & Turner
Company: Universal Paper and Plastics
Department: Maintenance
Purpose of the Position
Universal Paper and Plastics is seeking a Fitter & Turner Apprentice to support mechanical maintenance and repairs across the Roll, Serviette, and Ink Factories. The role is focused on ensuring machinery and equipment operate reliably to maximise production, reduce downtime, control maintenance costs, and extend asset life. The successful candidate must be willing to work standby and after hours when operational requirements demand.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Planning & Productivity
• Perform continuous mechanical maintenance on machines, equipment, and buildings to required quality standards
• Assist with shutdown work and major mechanical maintenance activities
• Attend to machine breakdowns promptly and support permanent corrective actions
• Develop and maintain spare parts and inventory lists
• Assist with preventative maintenance schedules on mechanical equipment
• Support changeovers of major machine components such as embossers and folding cylinders
• Conduct effective troubleshooting to identify faults, hazards, and malfunctions
• Participate in new projects and plant upgrades
Mechanical Maintenance & Repairs
• Strip, repair, and replace centrifugal pumps, including bearing and seal replacement
• Strip, repair, and service gearboxes, rolls, and multi-stage pumps
• Perform motor fitting, shaft alignment, pulley, and belt installation
• Conduct basic machining of shafts and sleeves when required
• Carry out general maintenance tasks under the supervision of a qualified artisan
Health, Safety & Compliance
• Comply fully with all applicable government legislation and the OHS Act
• Ensure mechanical installations meet accepted industry standards
• Actively participate in the company’s safety programmes
• Identify, report, and mitigate potential safety and operational risks
• Maintain the integrity of all safety devices on machinery and equipment
• Complete job cards, maintenance records, and service documentation accurately
• Work towards achieving a zero-injury workplace
Quality Assurance
• Participate in and support ISO quality management systems
• Ensure machines and equipment are maintained to prevent quality defects
• Maintain high standards of workmanship to prevent rework and unnecessary downtime
Supervision & Authority
• All work must be performed under supervision of a qualified artisan
• Apprentices are not permitted to sign off safety documentation or work permits
Knowledge & Skills Required
• Completed institutional training in a mechanical trade
• Basic understanding of Health and Safety requirements
• Strong willingness to learn and develop technical skills
Minimum Requirements
• Minimum N2 qualification in Mechanical Trade Theory
• Institutional training with logbook
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit:
• Updated CV
• Proof of qualifications
Email applications to:
Shamiek Narrandes
snarrandes@upap.co.za
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
