Trailer Mechanic

JOB DESCRIPTION: TRAILER MECHANIC

Department: Fleet Maintenance / Workshop
Reports to: Workshop Manager / Fleet Manager
Location: As required by the company
Job Title: Trailer Mechanic

1. JOB PURPOSE

To inspect, maintain, diagnose, repair and service heavy-duty trailers to ensure that all trailers are roadworthy, safe, reliable and compliant with applicable road traffic legislation, company standards and operational requirements.

2. KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES2.1 Maintenance and Repairs

• Perform routine servicing, preventative maintenance and mechanical repairs on heavy-duty trailers.
• Inspect and repair trailer braking systems, including air brakes, brake chambers, valves and related components.
• Maintain and repair suspension systems, including leaf springs, airbags, shock absorbers and suspension components.
• Inspect and repair trailer axles, wheel bearings, hubs, wheels and tyres.
• Identify and repair faults in trailer electrical systems, including wiring, lights, indicators, ABS and EBS systems where applicable.
• Inspect and maintain landing legs, kingpins, fifth-wheel coupling interfaces and other coupling components.
• Repair or replace damaged trailer components in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
• Identify structural damage, cracks and defects in trailer chassis and bodies, and arrange or perform authorised repairs.

2.2 Inspections and Roadworthiness

• Conduct pre-maintenance, post-maintenance and general condition inspections.
• Identify defects that may compromise road safety or trailer performance.
• Ensure that trailers are maintained in a roadworthy condition before being released for operation.
• Report serious defects and ensure that unsafe trailers are removed from service until repaired and cleared.
• Assist with roadworthiness inspections and compliance requirements.

2.3 Fault Diagnosis and Technical Work

• Diagnose mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic and electrical faults.
• Use appropriate diagnostic tools, workshop equipment and technical manuals.
• Conduct pressure tests and functional checks on braking and pneumatic systems.
• Carry out welding, fabrication and component repairs where suitably qualified and authorised.
• Test repaired components and systems to confirm that they function correctly.

2.4 Administration and Reporting

• Complete job cards, maintenance checklists and repair reports accurately.
• Record parts used, repairs completed, labour hours and outstanding defects.
• Report recurring mechanical problems to the Workshop Manager or Fleet Manager.
• Identify additional repairs and obtain the required authorisation before proceeding.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records for each trailer.

2.5 Safety and Housekeeping

• Comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and applicable workplace safety procedures.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Follow safe workshop practices when working with compressed air, hydraulic equipment, lifting devices and heavy components.
• Ensure that tools, equipment and the workshop are kept clean and in good working order.
• Comply with company policies, disciplinary procedures and operational instructions.

3. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Grade 10 or Grade 12, preferably with relevant technical training.
• Relevant trade qualification as a Diesel Trailer Mechanic or equivalent technical qualifications are required for the position.
• Proven experience repairing and maintaining heavy-duty commercial trailers.
• Practical knowledge of trailer braking, suspension, axle, wheel-bearing and electrical systems.
• Welding and fabrication experience is advantageous

4. REQUIRED SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Strong mechanical fault-finding and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of heavy-duty trailer components and maintenance procedures.
• Ability to use workshop tools and diagnostic equipment safely.
• Good attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a maintenance team.
• Good communication and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet maintenance deadlines.
• Commitment to safety, reliability and operational efficiency.

5. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

The employee will be assessed against the following performance standards:

• Quality and reliability of repairs completed.
• Compliance with preventative maintenance schedules.
• Reduction in repeat breakdowns and avoidable mechanical failures.
• Timely completion of authorised maintenance work.
• Accuracy and completeness of job cards and maintenance records.
• Compliance with workshop safety procedures.
• Identification and reporting of defects before trailers are returned to service.
• Minimisation of trailer downtime without compromising safety or repair quality.

6. GENERAL

The employee may be required to perform other reasonable duties related to trailer maintenance and workshop operations, provided that such duties are lawful, safe and consistent with the employee's skills, competence and employment contract.

The employee is required to comply with all applicable legislation, company policies, safety standards and reasonable instructions issued by management.

Pay: R12 000,00 per month

Work Location: In person