Semi-Skilled Artisan (Diesel Mechanic) – DP World Centurion
Employment Type: Permanent
Working Hours: Full Time
Introduction
DP World, a globally recognised leader in integrated logistics, continues to expand its operations in South Africa through its advanced transport, warehousing, port logistics, and supply chain solutions. As part of this ongoing commitment to operational excellence, DP World Centurion is seeking a focused, motivated, and technically skilled individual to join the engineering and vehicle maintenance team as a Semi-Skilled Artisan (Diesel Mechanic).
This opportunity offers a dynamic and challenging work environment where precision, discipline, and professionalism are essential. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability, safety, and optimal performance of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles within the Fast ’n Fresh fleet. This position not only requires mechanical competence but also a strong sense of responsibility, the ability to work under pressure, and a willingness to learn and grow in a demanding logistics setting.
The Semi-Skilled Artisan will assist qualified artisans, follow approved maintenance procedures, contribute to continuous improvement, and help maintain DP World’s commitment to exceptional service delivery. As an essential part of operations, the role includes hands-on mechanical work, inspections, repairs, and compliance with all safety standards.
Job Function
The core function of this role is to maintain heavy-duty diesel vehicles in alignment with OEM guidelines and Fast ’n Fresh operational standards, ensuring uninterrupted logistics flow and maximum fleet availability. As part of the maintenance team, the Semi-Skilled Artisan is responsible for routine servicing, diagnosing vehicle conditions, performing mechanical duties under supervision, and responding promptly to operational breakdowns.
The position requires:
A solid understanding of diesel engine technology
Commitment to maintenance schedules
The ability to work independently when required
A readiness to perform standby duties and assist during breakdowns
This role directly contributes to the efficiency, safety, and productivity of the entire fleet operation.
Duties & Responsibilities
The Semi-Skilled Artisan (Diesel Mechanic) will be responsible for a broad range of technical and operational duties, ensuring that all mechanical interventions support fleet reliability and compliance with quality standards. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Vehicle Maintenance and Mechanical Repairs
Conduct routine maintenance on medium- and heavy-duty trucks, trailers, and auxiliary equipment in accordance with operational requirements.
Assist in performing scheduled services such as oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and adjustments.
Conduct preliminary diagnostic assessments to identify defects or performance issues before escalating for specialized interventions.
Repair or replace defective components, fittings, hoses, belts, electrical parts, or damaged mechanical elements following SOPs.
Ensure repairs are carried out efficiently to reduce fleet downtime and improve operational readiness.
- Diagnostic Duties and Mechanical Problem-Solving
Examine vehicles to identify visible and mechanical defects through visual inspections, preliminary diagnostic tools, and performance checks.
Record findings and report faults accurately to relevant supervisors or qualified artisans.
Follow guidance provided by senior mechanics when carrying out complex repair tasks.
Participate in root-cause analyses for recurring vehicle issues, helping improve long-term fleet performance.
- Quality Control and Compliance
Conduct quality checks after repairs to verify that all work meets DP World and OEM standards.
Demonstrate full adherence to SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality) policies and general company procedures.
Maintain a safe working environment by using tools responsibly and complying with workshop safety regulations.
Document all inspections, maintenance activities, and repairs clearly on job cards, works orders, requisitions, and any other mandatory maintenance records.
- Operational Efficiency
Minimize turnaround times for vehicles booked in for maintenance by working efficiently and communicating promptly with the operations team.
Assist in planning and organising workshop tasks when required.
Maintain tools, equipment, and workspaces to ensure a neat and operational environment.
- Breakdown and Standby Support
Respond promptly to breakdown calls both onsite and offsite when required.
Assist in roadside diagnostics and temporary repairs to mobilize vehicles safely.
Participate in standby duties as scheduled, including weekends, public holidays, and overtime shifts.
Ensure breakdown resolution promotes safety and minimizes operational disruption.
Desired Experience & Qualifications
To perform successfully in this role, DP World requires an individual who demonstrates mechanical aptitude, a commitment to professional development, and the ability to work both independently and with a team.
Candidates should meet the following criteria:
Educational Background
Grade 12 / Matric or NQF Level 4 equivalent (essential)
A relevant technical qualification in diesel mechanics or motor mechanics (advantageous but not mandatory for semi-skilled level)
Driver’s License
Code 8 (B) driver’s licence (required)
Code 14 with a valid PRDP (preferred and advantageous for breakdown support)
Experience Requirements
Minimum of 1–2 years of practical experience working as a semi-skilled diesel mechanic in a workshop environment
Familiarity with heavy-duty commercial vehicles, trucks, and trailers
Basic experience in identifying faults and assisting with repairs under supervision
Ability to perform routine servicing and maintenance tasks independently
Skills and Attributes
Good verbal and written communication skills
Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn
Ability to work with limited supervision when needed
Self-driven, reliable, and committed to maintaining high productivity
Capable of working in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines
Willingness to work shifts, overtime, weekends, and public holidays, depending on operational demands
A positive attitude toward safety and compliance
Package & Remuneration
Compensation aligns with the NBC Minimum Wage structure, including sector-specific allowances and benefits as applicable.
DP World offers an opportunity for growth, continuous learning, and exposure to world-class logistics operations.
Additional benefits may include overtime pay, shift allowances, training opportunities, and access to an inclusive workplace culture that prioritizes employee development.
Expanded Overview
DP World operates within a high-performance logistics environment where efficiency, reliability, and innovation are central to delivering world-class service. For this reason, the Semi-Skilled Artisan role is more than just a mechanical function—it’s an essential part of DP World’s mission to ensure its transport and logistics operations remain uninterrupted and compliant with global best practices.
Importance of the Role in the Logistics Environment
Within the logistics sector, vehicle availability directly impacts delivery schedules, customer satisfaction, supply chain stability, and overall operational costs. A truck that breaks down mid-route or fails to pass inspection can delay shipments, compromise freight integrity, and negatively affect business commitments.
By performing maintenance and mechanical tasks precisely and safely, the Semi-Skilled Artisan helps:
Reduce operational risks
Enhance fleet reliability and fuel efficiency
Support route planning and delivery timelines
Maintain safety compliance to avoid penalties or incidents
Extend the lifespan of expensive heavy-duty fleet assets
Technical Expectations
Although the role is “semi-skilled,” DP World expects candidates to demonstrate technical awareness and readiness to engage in increasingly complex tasks. Over time, the successful candidate may gain exposure to:
Advanced fault-finding using electronic diagnostic systems
Assisting in major repairs such as engine overhauls, gearbox repairs, or differential adjustments
Preventive maintenance planning
Workshop inventory control and parts management
SHEQ audits and safety compliance inspections
This position serves as a valuable entry into a long-term technical career, potentially leading to artisan qualification through experience and further study.
Work Environment
The Centurion facility operates with a diverse, multidisciplinary team consisting of:
Qualified diesel mechanics
Auto electricians
Workshop supervisors
Breakdown response teams
Fleet controllers
Operations and logistics coordinators
The Semi-Skilled Artisan will interact regularly with these teams, understanding the full workflow from vehicle booking, servicing, quality checks, and final sign-off.
DP World values teamwork, accountability, continuous improvement, and safety—all values that the new Semi-Skilled Artisan will be expected to uphold.
Conclusion
The Semi-Skilled Artisan (Diesel Mechanic) role at DP World is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated, mechanically inclined individual to gain valuable experience in one of the world’s leading logistics organisations. With hands-on involvement across truck and trailer maintenance, exposure to advanced fleet technologies, and support from experienced artisans, this position offers a strong foundational pathway for long-term career development in the mechanical field.
DP World seeks an individual who is safety-conscious, proactive, technically capable, and prepared to work in a demanding but rewarding environment where every task contributes to the movement of goods across South Africa’s logistics network.
If you meet the required qualifications and are ready to join a fast-paced, globally recognised company, this position offers the ideal platform to grow your skills and make a meaningful impact.