Workshop Manager

Franschhoek Wine Tram is looking for an energetic, technically minded and hands-on Workshop & Fleet Manager to take ownership of our workshop, tram and vehicle fleet.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys solving technical problems, leading people and improving maintenance systems within a unique environment combining road transport, rail and tourism.

Role Overview

The Workshop & Fleet Manager will be responsible for ensuring that our double-deck railway trams, tram buses, company vehicles and associated equipment are safe, compliant, reliable and operationally ready.

You will lead the workshop and technical maintenance function, manage preventative maintenance programmes and ensure faults and breakdowns are addressed efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operation of the workshop and maintenance team.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of railway trams, tram buses, vehicles and related equipment.
• Diagnose and coordinate mechanical and electrical repairs.
• Develop and manage preventative maintenance and inspection schedules.
• Ensure maximum fleet availability and operational reliability.
• Maintain accurate maintenance, repair and inspection records.
• Manage mechanics, technicians and workshop personnel.
• Manage tools, spare parts, equipment and workshop inventory.
• Coordinate external suppliers, contractors and specialist repairs.
• Monitor maintenance costs and identify cost-effective solutions.
• Ensure workshop and fleet activities comply with relevant safety, transport and regulatory requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement in workshop practices, fleet reliability and maintenance systems.

Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant technical, mechanical or engineering qualification.
• Strong mechanical and electrical fault-finding ability.
• Experience managing a workshop, fleet or technical maintenance environment.
• Experience with preventative maintenance and asset management.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent planning, organisational and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Experience within transport, heavy vehicles, rail or similar environments will be advantageous.
• Valid driver's licence.
• Own reliable transport.

Work Location: In person