About Company
Hippo Valley Estates Limited, a subsidiary of Tongaat Hulett, stands as a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s agricultural and industrial landscape. Located in the lowveld region of Chiredzi, Masvingo Province, we are one of the largest sugar cane growers and millers in the country. For over six decades, Hippo Valley has been synonymous with quality, innovation, and community development. Our sprawling operations encompass extensive sugar cane plantations, state-of-the-art sugar mills, and comprehensive infrastructure supporting thousands of employees and surrounding communities. We are committed to sustainable practices, operational excellence, and fostering a collaborative environment where talent can thrive. Joining Hippo Valley means becoming part of a legacy of growth, contributing to a vital industry, and working with a dedicated team focused on delivering high-quality products and making a meaningful impact. We pride ourselves on maintaining world-class standards in all facets of our operations, from cultivation to engineering and processing.
Job Description
Hippo Valley Estates Limited is seeking a highly skilled and meticulous Metal Finishing Technician to join our dynamic engineering team in Chiredzi. In this critical role, you will be instrumental in ensuring the longevity, precision, and aesthetic quality of a wide range of metal components used across our vast industrial operations. From agricultural machinery parts to intricate milling equipment, your expertise in surface treatment and finishing will directly impact our operational efficiency and product reliability. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of various metal finishing techniques, including grinding, polishing, deburring, and potentially plating or coating applications. You will work with diverse materials and complex geometries, requiring exceptional attention to detail, a commitment to quality, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated professional to contribute significantly to the smooth functioning of a major agricultural and industrial enterprise, maintaining vital equipment and ensuring adherence to stringent industry standards. You will operate specialized equipment, interpret technical drawings, and collaborate closely with engineers and maintenance teams to deliver high-quality finished components that meet exacting specifications. Your role is vital in preventing corrosion, reducing friction, improving wear resistance, and enhancing the overall performance and lifespan of our crucial machinery. This position offers a chance to apply your specialized skills in a challenging yet rewarding environment, contributing to the backbone of our operational success.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform various metal finishing processes, including grinding, sanding, deburring, polishing, and buffing on metal components.
- Inspect finished products for defects, ensuring they meet specified quality standards and tolerances.
- Operate and maintain a variety of metal finishing tools and equipment, such as grinders, sanders, vibratory tumblers, and polishing machines.
- Prepare surfaces for subsequent treatments like painting, powder coating, or plating, ensuring optimal adhesion and finish.
- Read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and work instructions to determine finishing requirements.
- Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to identify and implement process improvements for metal finishing operations.
- Adhere strictly to all safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized work environment.
- Conduct routine maintenance and troubleshooting on finishing equipment to ensure optimal performance.
Required Skills
- Proficiency in various metal finishing techniques (grinding, sanding, deburring, polishing)
- Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to operate specialized machinery
- Excellent attention to detail and precision in workmanship
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints
- Knowledge of different metal types and their finishing properties
- Commitment to safety practices and procedures in a workshop environment
- Problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot finishing issues
- Physical stamina and dexterity for hands-on work
Preferred Qualifications
- Relevant trade certification or vocational training in metalwork, fabrication, or mechanical engineering
- Experience with surface treatment processes such as anodizing, plating, or powder coating
- Familiarity with quality control tools and measurement instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers)
- Experience in a heavy industrial or agricultural machinery repair environment
- Basic computer literacy for record-keeping and data entry
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
- Pension scheme contributions
- Opportunities for continuous professional development and training
- A stable and supportive work environment within a leading industry player
- Access to company housing or housing allowances (subject to policy)
- Contribution to a vital industry supporting national development
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the above criteria are encouraged to apply by clicking on the link below. Please ensure your application includes a detailed resume outlining your experience and qualifications relevant to this role.