Komatsu South Africa: Artisan Assistant 2026

The successful candidate should have at least 6 months’ experience in a general workshop or technical environment, preferably with exposure to earthmoving machinery, heavy equipment, mechanical components, tools, and maintenance activities.

The position is based at the Gauteng Branch, Isando Field Services.

PURPOSE OF THE JOB

The purpose of the Assistant Artisan III position is to provide practical and procedural support to artisans and technical teams in the maintenance, servicing, assembly, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and general handling of Komatsu machines and components.

The position operates at a practical/procedural level within the Mining, Construction, and OEM Industry, performing standardised work according to Komatsu procedures, safety requirements, maintenance standards, and instructions from qualified personnel.

The incumbent will be expected to:

• Assist qualified artisans with day-to-day technical and maintenance activities.
• Support machine and component assembly and disassembly.
• Perform basic cleaning, maintenance, housekeeping, and workshop activities.
• Correctly use basic hand tools and workshop equipment.
• Follow prescribed safety procedures and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised working environment.
• Develop technical knowledge and practical competence through on-the-job training.
• Work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary technical team.
• Support field service activities when required.
• Operate designated Komatsu equipment only when appropriately trained and authorised.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Grade 12 with Technical Subjects, or NQF Level 4.
• Minimum 6 months’ experience in a general workshop or technical environment.
• Experience working with or around earthmoving machines will be advantageous.
• Basic knowledge of workshop tools and their correct application.
• Basic understanding of machine repairs and maintenance activities.
• Basic understanding of mechanical components and workshop practices.
• Basic knowledge of Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) requirements.
• Basic understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and workplace safety requirements.
• Ability to read, write, understand, and communicate effectively in English.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues, artisans, supervisors, and other employees.
• A valid Code 08 driver’s licence will be an advantage.
• Willingness to work overtime, standby, and travel when operationally required.
• Strong interest in and passion for heavy earthmoving equipment and machinery.
• Safety-oriented approach due to the movement of heavy machines, components, tools, and equipment.

ADVANTAGEOUS EXPERIENCE

• Previous exposure to mining equipment or construction machinery.
• Experience working with heavy earthmoving equipment.
• Basic mechanical maintenance experience.
• Basic machine assembly and disassembly experience.
• Basic rigging and slinging knowledge.
• Familiarity with workshop tools and equipment.
• Exposure to maintenance procedures and technical instructions.
• Basic understanding of hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical components.
• Experience working according to Standard Operating Procedures.
• Experience working in a workshop, field service, mining, construction, or OEM environment.
• Basic experience using measuring or diagnostic equipment such as pressure gauges and torque wrenches.

KEY SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

Technical Skills

• Basic hand tool knowledge and application.
• Basic mechanical aptitude.
• Basic machine and component identification.
• Basic understanding of maintenance procedures.
• Ability to follow technical instructions and procedures.
• Basic diagnostic tool awareness.
• Ability to work safely around heavy machinery.
• Ability to identify basic equipment or component problems and report them appropriately.
• Willingness to develop technical and mechanical skills.

Behavioural Competencies

• Attention to detail.
• Good communication skills.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Willingness to learn.
• Positive attitude.
• Reliability and punctuality.
• Accepting responsibility.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to manage time effectively.
• Adaptability to change.
• Attentive listening.
• Following instructions accurately.
• Commitment to quality and safety.
• Strong work ethic.
• Ability to work independently when instructed.
• Ability to work effectively within a team environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Safety, Health and Environment (SHE)

• Comply with Komatsu’s SHE policies, procedures, and standards.
• Follow all workplace health and safety requirements.
• Wear the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, hazards, incidents, and near misses.
• Maintain a safe working environment around machines, components, tools, and equipment.
• Follow safe working procedures when handling heavy components.
• Comply with all applicable workplace safety legislation.
• Participate in toolbox talks, safety meetings, and required safety training.
• Ensure that work is performed according to approved procedures and instructions.
• Demonstrate a safety-first mindset when working around moving machinery and components.

2. Machine and Component Assembly and Disassembly

• Assist qualified artisans and technical personnel with machine and component assembly and disassembly activities.
• Assist with the removal and installation of machine components.
• Assist with the assembly and disassembly of mechanical components.
• Correctly identify components before removal or installation.
• Prepare tools and equipment required for assembly and disassembly.
• Assist with the safe movement and positioning of components.
• Follow instructions from qualified artisans and supervisors.
• Ensure components are handled, stored, and protected correctly.
• Maintain good housekeeping during assembly and disassembly activities.
• Use appropriate lifting, rigging, and handling procedures.
• Apply basic knowledge of rigging and slinging where trained and authorised.

3. Component and Machine Cleaning

• Clean machines, components, tools, and work areas.
• Remove grease, dirt, oil, and other contaminants where required.
• Prepare components for inspection, maintenance, or repair.
• Ensure cleaned components are stored correctly.
• Maintain cleanliness and order in the workshop and field-service environment.
• Use cleaning equipment and materials safely.
• Follow environmental requirements when handling oils, chemicals, waste, and contaminated materials.

4. Basic Maintenance

• Assist artisans with basic maintenance activities within the limits of the position and level of training.
• Perform basic checks and inspections.
• Assist with lubrication and servicing activities where authorised.
• Check basic components for visible signs of wear or damage.
• Report defective or damaged components to the responsible artisan or supervisor.
• Assist with the preparation of machines and components for maintenance.
• Use basic tools correctly and safely.
• Support artisans during repairs and maintenance tasks.
• Follow maintenance instructions and Standard Operating Procedures.

5. Workshop Housekeeping and 5S

• Keep work areas clean and organised.
• Return tools and equipment to their designated locations.
• Follow Komatsu’s 5S workplace practices.
• Ensure waste is disposed of correctly.
• Keep walkways, workstations, and access areas clear.
• Maintain good housekeeping before, during, and after work activities.
• Report damaged or unsafe workshop equipment.
• Take care of company tools, equipment, vehicles, and facilities.

6. Use of Tools and Equipment

The incumbent will be required to develop and demonstrate competence in the safe use of basic workshop tools, including:

• Spanners and sockets.
• Torque wrenches.
• Pressure gauges.
• Basic measuring equipment.
• Hand tools.
• Workshop equipment.
• Cleaning equipment.
• Basic diagnostic tools.

Tools must only be used for their intended purpose and in accordance with Komatsu procedures and training.

7. Basic Diagnostic Support

• Assist artisans with basic diagnostic activities within the employee’s level of training and authorisation.
• Assist with the use of basic diagnostic equipment.
• Use pressure gauges under instruction.
• Use torque wrenches correctly.
• Record or report basic observations.
• Assist with troubleshooting activities.
• Identify obvious abnormalities and report them to the artisan.
• Follow diagnostic procedures and technical instructions.
• Develop knowledge of equipment systems through practical exposure.

8. Komatsu Service Vehicle

The employee may be required to operate a Komatsu service vehicle where authorised.

• Hold the required driver’s licence.
• Comply with company vehicle policies.
• Conduct basic vehicle checks as required.
• Operate vehicles safely and responsibly.
• Maintain the cleanliness of the vehicle.
• Report vehicle defects or safety concerns.
• Comply with all applicable road and workplace safety requirements.

9. Operation of Komatsu Machines

The employee may be required to operate designated Komatsu machines where appropriately trained, assessed, and authorised.

• Operate equipment only within the limits of training and authorisation.
• Follow machine operating procedures.
• Conduct required pre-start checks.
• Report machine defects and abnormalities.
• Operate equipment safely and responsibly.
• Comply with site-specific safety requirements.
• Complete additional internal training where required.

Employees designated as machine operators must complete the relevant additional training before operating equipment.

10. Support to Artisans

• Prepare tools and equipment.
• Prepare machines and components.
• Assist with maintenance and repair activities.
• Move and position components safely.
• Clean work areas and components.
• Fetch and return tools and equipment.
• Support inspection and troubleshooting activities.
• Follow instructions provided by qualified artisans.
• Assist with field-service activities.
• Support technical teams during planned and breakdown maintenance.

The employee must always operate within their level of competence, training, and authorisation.

11. Overtime, Standby and Travel

The position may require flexibility in working hours due to operational requirements.

The successful candidate must be willing to:

• Work overtime when required.
• Participate in standby arrangements where applicable.
• Work weekends or public holidays when operationally necessary.
• Travel to customer sites or other operational locations.
• Work in different workshop and field-service environments.
• Adapt to changing operational requirements.

CORE JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

1. SHE Compliance.
2. Machine and Component Disassembly.
3. Machine and Component Assembly.
4. Component and Machine Cleaning.
5. Basic Maintenance.
6. Workshop Housekeeping.
7. Komatsu 5S Compliance.
8. Basic Tool Application.
9. Basic Diagnostic Tool Operation.
10. Service Vehicle Operation.
11. Komatsu Machine Operation where trained and authorised.
12. Support to Qualified Artisans.
13. Rigging and Slinging Support.
14. Compliance with Standard Operating Procedures.
15. PPE Compliance.
16. Maintenance Manual Compliance.

COMPETENCIES

Accepting Responsibility

Takes ownership of assigned tasks, follows through on instructions, and accepts accountability for the quality and safety of work performed.

Testing and Troubleshooting

Demonstrates an interest in identifying basic equipment problems, understanding symptoms, and assisting artisans with troubleshooting activities.

Adapting to Change

Demonstrates flexibility and willingness to work with different machines, components, working environments, procedures, and operational requirements.

Using Mathematics

Applies basic mathematical skills when measuring, counting, calculating quantities, reading measurements, and assisting with technical tasks.

Reading Effectively

Understands and follows work instructions, safety procedures, technical documentation, maintenance instructions, and Standard Operating Procedures.

Managing Time

Prioritises assigned work, completes tasks within expected timeframes, and manages tools and resources effectively.

Displaying Technical Expertise

Demonstrates mechanical aptitude and a willingness to continuously develop technical knowledge and practical skills.

Attentive Listening

Listens carefully to instructions from artisans, supervisors, and other technical personnel and applies those instructions accurately.

EDUCATION

Minimum Qualification:

• Grade 12 with Technical Subjects; or
• NQF Level 4 qualification.

Technical subjects and mechanical-related studies will be advantageous.

EXPERIENCE

Minimum Experience

• At least 6 months of general workshop or technical environment experience.

Specific Experience

• Basic rigging and slinging experience.
• Basic knowledge of workshop tools.
• Exposure to earthmoving equipment.
• Experience working around heavy machinery.
• Basic machine maintenance experience.
• Basic mechanical workshop experience.
• Experience in mining, construction, field service, or an OEM environment.

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT

Mandatory English proficiency:

• Read English.
• Write English.
• Speak and understand English.
• Follow verbal and written instructions.
• Communicate effectively with artisans, supervisors, colleagues, customers, and other stakeholders where required.

CERTIFICATIONS AND ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Driver’s Licence

A valid Code 08 driver’s licence will be an advantage.

Forklift Certification

Forklift certification is not an entry requirement. Successful employees will undergo internal training where required.

Crane Certification

Crane certification is not an entry requirement. Appropriate internal training will be provided where required.

Rigging and Slinging

Basic knowledge or experience in rigging and slinging will be advantageous. Employees must only perform rigging-related activities within the limits of their training and authorisation.

POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND STANDARDS

The successful candidate will be required to comply with all applicable Komatsu policies, procedures, standards, and instructions, including:

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• PPE standards.
• Komatsu 5S workplace standards.
• Occupational Health and Safety requirements.
• SHE policies and procedures.
• Machine operating procedures.
• Maintenance procedures.
• Operator Maintenance Manuals.
• Workshop procedures.
• Equipment-specific safety requirements.
• Environmental and waste-management procedures.
• Company vehicle and driving procedures.
• Site-specific customer requirements where applicable.

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE

The ideal candidate will be someone who:

• Has a genuine passion for heavy earthmoving machinery.
• Enjoys practical and hands-on technical work.
• Has strong mechanical aptitude.
• Is interested in developing a career as an artisan or technical specialist.
• Is willing to learn from experienced artisans.
• Understands the importance of workplace safety.
• Is comfortable working in a physically demanding environment.
• Can follow instructions accurately.
• Takes pride in maintaining clean and organised work areas.
• Works well as part of a team.
• Is reliable, punctual, and responsible.
• Can work under pressure when operational requirements demand it.
• Is willing to work overtime, standby, and travel when required.
• Demonstrates a positive attitude toward continuous learning and development.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

This position provides an opportunity to gain valuable practical exposure within the heavy equipment, mining, construction, and OEM industry.

Through supervised workplace experience, internal training, exposure to qualified artisans, and practical involvement in machine maintenance and repair activities, the successful candidate can develop valuable technical competencies and broaden their understanding of heavy earthmoving equipment.

The role can provide a strong foundation for an individual who wishes to pursue further technical training, artisan development, mechanical studies, or a long-term career within the heavy equipment and mining industries.

IMPORTANT WORKPLACE EXPECTATIONS

The successful candidate is expected to:

• Put safety first in every task.
• Follow instructions and approved procedures.
• Never operate equipment without the required authorisation and training.
• Use PPE correctly and consistently.
• Take care of company property and equipment.
• Maintain professional conduct at all times.
• Report hazards, defects, incidents, and unsafe conditions immediately.
• Ask for assistance when a task is outside their level of competence.
• Continuously develop technical knowledge and practical skills.
• Maintain good housekeeping and workplace discipline.
• Demonstrate respect toward colleagues, supervisors, artisans, customers, and other stakeholders.

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