Principal Technician: Mechanical (Peromnes Grade 8) [Three-year fixed term appointment] ASRI Re-Advertisement

Listing reference: ukzn_000480
Listing status: Under Review
Apply by: 13 December 2024
Position summary
Industry: Education & Training
Job category: University and Academy
Location: Durban
Contract: Fixed Term Contract
Remuneration: Market Related
EE position: Yes
Introduction
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is committed to Employment Equity with the intention to promote representivity within the Institution. Preference will be given to applicants from the designated groups in accordance with our Employment Equity Plan. College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, School of Engineering, Howard College Campus.
Job description

The Aerospace Systems Research Institute develops state-of-the-art aerospace propulsion and flight hardware systems. This technical support role involves operating advanced manufacturing machines including a 5-axis computer numerical controlled (CNC) mill and a 3-axis horizontal turning centre.

The incumbent must have experience in programming and operating state-of-the-art 5-axis universal machining centres as well as turning centres with live tooling, Y-axis and sub spindle operation. S/he must be proficient in industry leading CAM software, preferably EdgeCAM or Autodesk Fusion 360 CAM.  S/he must have good managerial skills and willingness to initiate solutions independently.

Further, s/he will be responsible for programming and operating 5-axis universal machining centres, programming and operating 3-axis turning centres with live tooling, Y-axis and sub-spindle Interpreting technical drawing and GD&T requirements to determine optimal machining operations, holding tight tolerances on challenging aerospace materials such as titanium and Inconel.  S/he will manage and maintain raw material and tooling stock, perform tool setting and part setup, design and manufacture part fixturing (soft jaws, risers etc), Liaise with ASRI engineering staff to refine designs suitable for manufacturing, develop production schedules for ASRI and 3rd stream parts, perform routine maintenance tasks on machines and equipment to ensure optimal performance.

In addition, the incumbent will aid in parts assemblies as per CAD designs and conduct quality inspections of machined parts using precision measuring instruments such as co-ordinate measuring machines (CMM). S/he must be familiar with modern manufacturing techniques including high speed machining (HSM), additive manufacturing and EDM processes.

Furthermore, s/he will provide expertise and advice to ASRI personnel including recommending appropriate materials for component manufacturing and assisting with sourcing quotations. S/he must have knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. 

 The incumbent will report to the Director of ASRI. 

Minimum requirements

  • Matric /N3 plus 3-year relevant qualification or relevant recognised Trade qualification in one of the following areas of expertise: (Fitting and Turning; Tool making or Millwright).
  • Five (5) years Trade/Artisan experience in programming and operating CNC machinery such as CNC Lathes, and CNC Milling machines of which 2 will be at a senior level.
  • Proficiency in industry leading CAM software, preferably EdgeCAM or Autodesk Fusion 360 CAM.
  • A valid unendorsed driver’s license.

Short-listed candidates will be required to undergo a skills test to assess.

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