Description/Synopsys:

A leading global manufacturer is seeking an experienced Workshop Planner to oversee and coordinate workshop operations at its Edenvale facility.

In this planning and scheduling role, the successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating and tracking all workshop activities, including new machine builds, spare parts manufacturing, and equipment repairs. Working closely with production teams, the successful candidate will develop and manage job schedules, monitor daily progress, and ensure the efficient use of resources to optimise workflow and maximise overall workshop productivity.

Minimum Requirements:

• Matric (NQF Level 4) or equivalent; Mathematics and Physical Science advantageous.

• National Diploma or Higher Certificate would be an added advantage.

• Minimum 5 years’ planning and scheduling experience in heavy fabrication; mining machinery experience is highly advantageous.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Project for workshop scheduling and progress tracking.

• Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills, with strong MS Office proficiency.

• Ability to read and interpret fabrication, machining, and assembly drawings.

• Ability to interpret master assembly Bills of Materials (BOMs) to determine sub-assembly priorities and production sequences.

Main Responsibilities:

Scheduling & Timeline Management

• Create master workshop schedules using Microsoft Project for all parallel workloads, including new equipment builds, spare components, and breakdown repairs.

• Update workflows for the workshop floors to balance work distribution across the machine, fabrication, and assembly shops.

• Identify the critical path for complex assembly and refurbishment projects to anticipate bottlenecks before they impact delivery dates.

Tracking & Progress Optimisation

• Track daily jobs and monitor work-in-progress (WIP) to ensure tasks stay aligned with planned timelines.

• Forecast realistic completion dates based on actual workshop performance data and machine availability.

• Identify execution bottlenecks or schedule slippages, and communicate warnings in advance.

Stakeholder & Operational Support

• Provide scheduling support to the workshop to help optimise the workflow through and between departments.

• Update schedules based on feedback received from the Commercial Department regarding lead times, order updates, and target delivery windows.

Soft Skills:

• Strong logical thinking with an aptitude for sequencing tasks and calculation of timeframes.

• Assertive communication style to gather progress updates comfortably from busy workshop floors.

• Resilience and adaptability to re-prioritise schedules rapidly when urgent repair or breakdown jobs enter the workflow.