The Technical Specialist is responsible for providing specialized technical expertise in the maintenance, diagnosis, repair, commissioning, and reliability improvement of equipment used in container handling operations. The role supports operational efficiency, equipment availability, skills development and compliance with safety, health, and legislative requirements.

Key Performance Areas/Responsibilities

Technical Support & Troubleshooting

• Provide advanced technical assistance for material handling equipment including Konecranes, Terberg, and Link belt.


• Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and control system faults


• Support field technicians with escalated technical issues and root cause analysis


• Recommend corrective actions and permanent solutions to recurring failures


• Act as the technical escalation point for complex and recurring equipment failures

Preventive Maintenance and Reliability

• Develop, implement, and review preventive maintenance programmes in line with OEM guidelines


• Monitor equipment condition, analyse failure trends, and recommend improvements


• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to reduce downtime and lifecycle cost

Installation, Commissioning, and Modification

• Support or lead commissioning new equipment and attachments

• Perform calibration, parameter setting, and functional testing in accordance with OEM specifications


• Assist with equipment upgrades, retrofits, and modifications


• Ensure equipment is configured correctly for site operating conditions
  
  

Health, Safety, and Legislative Compliance
Ensure compliance with:

• Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993)


• Relevant regulations, site rules, and company procedures


• OEM safety standards


• Identify hazards and participate in risk assessments and incident investigations


• Promote safe work practices and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

Training and Skills Development

• Provide technical training and on-the-job coaching to technicians and equipment operators


• Assist in skills development and competency assessments


• Prepare technical documentation, safe work instructions, and service reports
  
  

Customer and Stakeholder Support

• Provide technical advisory support to customers and operational teams


• Assist with technical reports, equipment condition assessments, and recommendations


• Liaise with OEMs and suppliers regarding technical issues and product improvements


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Warranty Responsibilities

• Warranty Claim Management: Review, validate, and process warranty claims in strict alignment with company policies and manufacturer guidelines.


• Compliance Verification: Ensure all warranty documentation, parts, and labor submissions meet regulatory and contractual requirements.


• Stakeholder Coordination: Liaise with customers, service teams, and suppliers to resolve warranty disputes promptly and ensure fair, transparent outcomes.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

National Diploma or Degree in:

• Mechanical Engineering


• Electrical Engineering

OR

Relevant trade qualification:

• Diesel Mechanic


• Earthmoving Equipment Mechanic


• Millwright
  
  

Experience

• Minimum 10 years’ experience working with heavy material handling or container handling equipment.


• Proven experience on Konecranes reach stackers and Terberg Tractors is essential


• Exposure to port, terminal, container depot, or heavy logistics environments

Technical Competencies

Strong knowledge of:

• Diesel engines and emissions systems


• High-pressure hydraulic systems


• Electrical and electronic control systems (CANBUS)


• OEM diagnostic tools and software


•  


• Ability to read and interpret:


• Electrical schematics


• Hydraulic diagrams


• OEM manuals and technical specifications


• Computer literacy (CMMS, diagnostics, MS Office)

 Behavioural Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.


• Effective communication and technical explanation ability


• High level of accountability and attention to detail


• Ability to work independently and under pressure


• Safety-conscious and quality-driven mindset