Mechanic at Ol Pejeta Conservancy (OPC)

Role Summary

• The Mechanic will be responsible for conducting vehicle maintenance and repairs, undertaking panel beating works and performing auto spray painting to ensure vehicles are restored to optimal appearance condition(s), servicing of Ol Pejeta Conservancy’s (OPC) fleet of vehicles and light machinery. This includes 4-wheel drive vehicles, motorcycles, light commercial trucks and earth equipment used in the Conservancy’s logistics and administrative operations. The role ensures all vehicles and equipment’s are operationally performing and aesthetically good looking good, safe, and reliable to support the conservancy’s diverse operations. The Mechanic will perform troubleshooting, conduct routine servicing, address mechanical and body faults and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.

Responsibilities:

• Vehicle Maintenance and Repairs: Perform routine panel beating, spray painting and vehicle body repairs.
• Vehicle Maintenance and Servicing: Perform routine servicing and preventive maintenance on OPC’s fleet, including 4×4 vehicles, motorcycles, light commercial trucks and earth equipment’s. Tasks include oil changes, brake inspections, tire rotations, and fluid level checks to ensure optimal vehicle and equipment performance.
• Mechanical Repairs and Troubleshooting: Diagnose and repair mechanical issues, including engine problems, transmission faults, suspension, and braking systems. Use diagnostic tools to identify issues accurately and implement effective solutions to minimize downtime.
• Preventive and Curative Maintenance: Assist in the development and execution of preventive maintenance schedules. Conduct curative repairs promptly to address unexpected breakdowns, ensuring minimal disruption to conservancy operations.
• Safety and Compliance: Ensure all repairs and maintenance work comply with occupational health and safety standards. Adhere to safe working practices, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintain a clean and organized work environment.
• Record-Keeping and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of maintenance and repair activities, including job cards, service logs, and parts usage for all vehicles and equipment’s. Report vehicle and equipment conditions, faults, and completed tasks to the Team Leader Garage for performance tracking.
• Inventory and Spare Parts Management: Request and manage spare parts, tools, and consumables needed for vehicle repairs. Ensure efficient use of materials and report any shortages or procurement needs to the Team Leader Garage.
• Field Repairs and Emergency Support: Provide on-site repair services for vehicles and motorcycles in the field to support emergency operations, conservation activities, and security patrols. Ensure vehicles are promptly restored to operational status in remote locations.
• Collaboration with Team Members: Work closely with the Team Leader Garage, Plant Mechanic, and other workshop staff to coordinate repairs, share technical knowledge, and ensure efficient workflow in the garage.
• Any additional duties as maybe assigned from time to time.

Qualifications and Skills:

Qualifications

• Diploma in Automotive Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Certification in motor vehicle mechanics or automotive spray painting.
• Additional training in vehicle panel beating and spray painting will be an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in vehicle maintenance and repair, preferably in a busy body shop environment.
• Experience working with 4-wheel drive vehicles, earth equipment’s, motorcycles,
  and light commercial trucks.

Skills

• Strong mechanical and panel beating skills for a wide range of vehicles and earth equipment’s.
• Strong Knowledge of automotive spray painting, paint colour mixing, and vehicle maintenance best practices.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple repair tasks simultaneously.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to repairs.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.