About Company
The Cotton Company of Zimbabwe (COTTCO) is a prominent player in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, specifically in the cotton value chain. As a leading ginner and marketer of cotton, COTTCO plays a crucial role in supporting thousands of small-scale farmers across the country, providing inputs, extension services, and a reliable market for their produce. Our operations are vital to the livelihoods of many communities and contribute significantly to the national economy. We are committed to fostering sustainable agricultural practices, improving farmer incomes, and ensuring the efficient processing of high-quality cotton. At our Gokwe facility, we operate an essential ginnery that processes raw cotton into lint and cottonseed, ready for further industrial use. Maintaining the smooth and continuous operation of this facility is paramount to our success and our commitment to farmers.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Maintenance Fitter to join our dynamic team at the Gokwe Ginnery. This is a critical role responsible for ensuring the optimal performance, reliability, and safety of all mechanical plant and equipment within our cotton processing facility. The successful candidate will be instrumental in executing both planned preventative maintenance programs and responding effectively to reactive breakdowns, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
Your expertise will cover a broad spectrum of mechanical systems, including but not limited to, conveyors, presses, pumps, motors, gearboxes, and various ginnery-specific machinery. You will be expected to diagnose complex faults, carry out precise repairs, perform overhauls, and conduct routine inspections, ensuring all work adheres to stringent safety standards and operational best practices. This role demands a proactive individual with a keen eye for detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Working within a fast-paced industrial environment, you will collaborate closely with production teams, engineers, and other maintenance personnel to implement efficient solutions and contribute to a culture of operational excellence. Your contribution will directly impact our ability to meet production targets and deliver on our promise to farmers and stakeholders. If you are a hands-on professional passionate about keeping vital machinery running efficiently and thrive in a challenging yet rewarding environment, we encourage you to apply and become a key part of COTTCO’s success in Gokwe.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform preventative and reactive maintenance on all ginnery mechanical plant and equipment, including conveyors, balers, presses, pumps, motors, and hydraulic systems.
- Diagnose mechanical faults accurately and efficiently using schematics, manuals, and practical experience.
- Execute repairs, overhauls, and rebuilds of machinery components to restore operational functionality.
- Conduct routine inspections to identify potential issues and implement corrective actions before breakdowns occur.
- Liaise with the production team to schedule maintenance activities that minimize disruption to operations.
- Adhere strictly to all company safety policies, procedures, and statutory regulations during all maintenance activities.
- Maintain accurate records of maintenance work performed, parts used, and equipment history.
- Assist in the installation and commissioning of new equipment as required.
- Propose and implement improvements to maintenance procedures and equipment reliability.
- Participate in root cause analysis for recurring mechanical failures.
- Ensure the workshop and work areas are kept clean, tidy, and organized.
Required Skills
- Class 1 Journeyman Certificate in Fitting and Turning or equivalent.
- National Certificate in Plant Mechanics, Machine Shop Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum of 3 years of proven experience as a Maintenance Fitter in an industrial or agricultural processing environment.
- Strong understanding of mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
- Proficiency in fault finding, diagnosis, and repair of industrial machinery.
- Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and equipment manuals.
- Demonstrated commitment to safety standards and practices.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with cotton ginnery machinery or similar processing equipment.
- Welding and fabrication skills (Arc, MIG, TIG).
- Valid Class 4 driver's license.
- Basic electrical fault-finding knowledge.
- Experience with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package.
- Health and wellness benefits.
- Annual leave and public holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- A supportive and dynamic work environment.
- Contribution to a vital national industry.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their detailed CV and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience. Please click on the application link below to apply for this job. Ensure your application clearly indicates your suitability for the Maintenance Fitter position in Gokwe.