Job Title: Mechanic (Forklift, Loader & Vehicle Maintenance)

Location: Kapeeka, Nakaseke District, Uganda

Reports to: Workshop Manager

Employment Type: Full-time

Role Purpose

The Mechanic is responsible for the maintenance, repair, and servicing of all company vehicles, forklifts, and loaders (including wheel loaders and skid steer loaders) to ensure they are safe, reliable, and operationally ready at all times. This role performs routine inspections, diagnoses mechanical and electrical faults, carries out preventive and corrective maintenance, and maintains accurate service records. The Mechanic plays a vital role in minimising downtime and supporting the smooth operation of logistics, warehousing, and construction activities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance

• Perform routine maintenance on light vehicles, heavy trucks, forklifts, and wheel loaders, including oil changes, filter replacements, tyre rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks.
• Conduct scheduled preventive maintenance according to manufacturer guidelines and company maintenance plans.
• Inspect equipment regularly to identify wear, damage, or potential failures and address them proactively.

2. Diagnostics & Repairs

• Diagnose mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic faults using diagnostic tools, manuals, and hands-on inspection.
• Carry out repairs on engines, transmissions, drive trains, steering systems, braking systems, hydraulic systems (for forklifts and loaders), and electrical systems.
• Replace worn or damaged parts such as belts, hoses, batteries, bearings, seals, and filters.

3. Forklift & Loader Specialist Repairs

• Troubleshoot and repair forklift mast and carriage systems, hydraulic cylinders, and control valves.
• Service and repair wheel loaders, including bucket attachments, articulation joints, and cooling systems.
• Ensure all lifting equipment complies with safety standards and load-testing requirements.

4. Record Keeping & Reporting

• Maintain accurate service logs for each vehicle and piece of equipment, recording all repairs, parts replaced, labour hours, and costs.
• Prepare weekly and monthly maintenance reports for the supervisor, highlighting recurring issues and recommendations.
• Track spare parts inventory and request replenishment when stock is low.

5. Safety & Compliance

• Adhere strictly to all safety protocols, including lockout/tagout procedures, use of PPE, and safe lifting practices.
• Ensure all repairs and modifications meet manufacturer specifications and local road safety standards.
• Report any safety hazards or equipment defects to the supervisor immediately.
• Assist in accident investigations by providing technical assessments of equipment involved.

6. Parts & Inventory Management

• Manage spare parts stock for vehicles, forklifts, and loaders, ensuring critical parts are available to minimise downtime.
• Liaise with procurement to order parts and consumables in a timely and cost-effective manner.
• Inspect incoming parts for quality and compatibility before installation.

7. Support & Training

• Assist and mentor junior mechanics and apprentices as required.
• Provide technical guidance to operators on proper equipment use and basic daily checks (e.g., tyre pressure, fluid levels).
• Support the workshop team during peak workloads or emergency breakdowns.

Qualifications & Experience

Education:

• Diploma or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field from a recognised institution.
• Technical/vocational training in heavy equipment, forklift, or automotive mechanics is highly desirable.
• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is an advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum 5–8 years of hands-on experience in mechanical maintenance, with a focus on forklifts, wheel loaders, and light/heavy vehicles.
• Proven experience in diagnosing and repairing diesel and petrol engines, hydraulic systems, and electrical systems.
• Experience in the logistics, warehousing, construction, or building materials industry is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with brands such as Toyota, Komatsu, CAT, or similar equipment is a plus.

Language Requirement (Mandatory):

• Fluent in English (spoken and written) – must be able to read technical manuals, write service reports, and communicate clearly with supervisors and operators.
• Knowledge of local languages (e.g., Luganda) is an advantage.

Technical Skills:

• Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills for mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems.
• Proficiency in using diagnostic equipment (e.g., OBD scanners, hydraulic pressure testers).
• Understanding of preventive maintenance schedules and workshop management.
• Knowledge of welding and fabrication is an added advantage.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Strong organisational skills to manage multiple maintenance tasks.
• Self-motivated, reliable, and able to work with minimal supervision.
• Team player with good interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and respond to emergency breakdowns quickly.

Other Requirements:

• Valid driving permit (Class B and Class H for heavy equipment, if applicable).
• Physical fitness to handle tools, lift heavy parts, and work in confined spaces.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime and weekends when required.
• Prior work experience in Uganda or East Africa is highly desirable.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on a diverse fleet of equipment in a growing company.
• Provision of required PPE and tools.
• Ongoing training and professional development.
• A supportive and safety-focused work environment.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send their CV, copies of relevant certifications, and a cover letter to [jobs-ug@twyfordtile.com] with the subject line “Mechanic – Uganda”. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.