This vacancy has closed. It closed on 6 July 2026 and is kept here for reference only.
DIESEL MECHANIC: GOUGH ISLAND
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
- Reference number
- OC11/2026
- Salary
- R487 197 per annum, (plus 37% in lieu of Service Benefits)
- Centre
- Gough Island
- Closing date
- 6 July 2026
- Circular
- No 21 of 2026
Requirements
A National NTC 3 certificate or equivalent qualification in related field, with a minimum of three years post trade experience. Competency in diesel engine and generator maintenance, diagnostics, repairs and overhaul, with knowledge of engine management systems, experience in operating electronic diagnostic tools as well as the ability to interpret results. The candidate must be familiar with good workshop practices, correct use of basic workshop tools and an understanding of current work, health and safety policies. The incumbent must be computer literate, have good verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work in a team. It would be an advantage if there is experience on earthmoving and material handling equipment.
Duties
The incumbent will be responsible for maintenance and operation of the power generators and related equipment. Maintenance and repairs of air-conditioning, refrigeration, water reticulation and wastewater systems. Replacement and repair of mechanical pumps and valves as well as pipe fitting. Maintenance and all repairs of forklift, telescopic cranes, portable generators and transfer pumps. Operate forklift and cargo handling equipment. Maintenance of field huts and field equipment. The incumbent will report to the base engineer and will be part of the technical team, led by the base engineer, which must perform any additional base-related technical functions. Prepare monthly and annual reports, do stock-takes to order spares and equipment and do other common “non-technical” duties performed by expedition members.
Where to send your application
Enquiries
Mr Willem Boshoff Tel No: (021) 493 7379
Note
The incumbent will execute duties at a Sub/Antarctic Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (September 2026 to October 2027) at Gough Island. There is no option to return to South Africa before October 2027. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant must be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition, the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.
Taken from Public Service Vacancy Circular 21 of 2026, published by the Department of Public Service and Administration on 19 June 2026. Open the PDF to check this post against the original. Last checked 8 September 2026.
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