Are you a skilled, Trade Tested Millwright with a passion for keeping complex machinery running at peak performance? If you have ever dreamed of working for a global leader that is reshaping how the world moves goods, then the Maintenance Technician position at CHEP is your golden ticket. With over 100 applicants already clicking “apply,” this role is clearly generating massive interest—and for excellent reasons. CHEP is not just any company; it is an international powerhouse that operates in 60 countries, employs approximately 13,000 people, and moves more goods to more people in more places than any other organisation on earth. If you are a Trade Tested Millwright with FMCG experience and PLC expertise, this maintenance career opportunity could be the breakthrough you have been waiting for.
Apply immediately – no closing date specified
Let us walk you through everything you need to know about this exciting role, from what CHEP is looking for to how you can position yourself as the ideal candidate. We have broken down the technical jargon into simple, actionable insights so you can apply with confidence.
Why CHEP? A Legacy of Global Supply Chain Excellence
CHEP helps move more goods to more people, in more places than any other organisation on earth via their 347 million pallets, crates and containers. With approximately 13,000 employees operating in 60 countries, CHEP is the global leader in pallet and container pooling services. Through their pioneering and sustainable share-and-reuse business model, the world’s biggest brands trust CHEP to help them transport their goods more efficiently, safely and with less environmental impact.
At CHEP, they believe in the power of diversity, collaboration, and continuous learning. They work hard to ensure that their people reflect and understand the customers they exist to serve. Joining CHEP means becoming part of a value-driven, commercially oriented international environment where you enable global trade every day.
What does this mean for you?
- You will join an international organisation with a presence in 60 countries—big enough to take you anywhere, yet small enough to help you get there sooner.
- You will help change how goods get to market and contribute to global sustainability.
- You will be empowered to bring your authentic self to work and be surrounded by diverse, driven professionals.
- You can maximise your work-life balance and flexibility through their Hybrid Work Model.
Maintenance Technician Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | Maintenance Technician |
| Company | CHEP |
| Location | Durban, KwaZulu-Natal |
| Employment Type | Full-time, On-site |
| Experience Required | 3–5 years in an FMCG environment |
| Qualifications | N4 Certificate, Trade Tested Millwright |
| Application | Online via LinkedIn or CHEP Careers Portal |
Note: This role requires a Trade Tested Artisan (Millwright) with strong PLC experience and a proven track record in FMCG maintenance.
What the Role Offers You
This is not just a job—it is a career-launching opportunity. You will be based at CHEP’s Durban service centre, playing a critical role in ensuring smooth, efficient plant operations.
Key Benefits:
Valuable Workplace Experience – gain practical skills in fault diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of complex industrial equipment.
Leadership Opportunities – supervise and motivate subordinates while leading capital projects.
Technical Development – work with advanced systems including PLCs, CMMS, hydraulics, pneumatics, and robotics.
Continuous Improvement – drive safety, cost efficiency, and product quality through best maintenance practices.
Global Exposure – connect with professionals in a world-class organisation operating across 60 countries.
Key Responsibilities
As a Maintenance Technician at CHEP, you will be the hero keeping the plant running smoothly. Your responsibilities will be varied and designed to give you a well-rounded technical leadership role.
You will be responsible for:
- Fault Diagnosis and Repair – performing hands-on diagnosis and repair of plant equipment, resolving issues efficiently to minimise downtime and maintain productivity.
- Maintenance Planning – collaborating with internal teams and external contractors to schedule and execute preventive and breakdown maintenance activities.
- Spare Parts Management – managing spare parts inventory to guarantee stock availability and prevent delays in maintenance tasks.
- Inspections and Documentation – conducting regular inspections of machinery and equipment, documenting all activities, repairs, and downtime.
- Project Leadership – leading and managing capital projects, coordinating with contractors, ensuring schedules are met, and controlling expenditures.
- Health and Safety Compliance – ensuring compliance with health and safety standards, fostering a zero-harm environment.
- Technical Expertise – providing technical support during equipment installation and acceptance testing.
- Continuous Improvement – driving improvement in safety, cost efficiency, product quality, and service delivery.
Pro tip: Be proactive and take ownership of your responsibilities. The more you engage with different tasks and teams, the more you will gain from this experience.
Do You Qualify? – Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the CHEP Maintenance Technician role, you must meet the following requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Qualifications | N4 Certificate and Trade Tested Artisan (Millwright) |
| Experience | 3–5 years’ technical experience in an FMCG environment |
| PLC Knowledge | PLC experience is essential |
| Technical Skills | Strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems maintenance |
| Maintenance Planning | Preventative and predictive maintenance planning |
| Fault Finding | Root cause analysis on plant equipment |
| Systems Knowledge | Understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, and robotics systems |
| CMMS | Knowledge of Computerised Maintenance Management Systems |
| Reliability Metrics | Equipment reliability and asset lifecycle management (MTBF & MTTR) |
| Mindset | Continuous improvement mindset (Lean / TPM principles are an advantage) |
How to Apply – Step‑by‑Step Guide
Step 1 – Prepare your documents:
- Updated CV (tailored to highlight your trade test certification, FMCG experience, and PLC expertise)
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copies of your N4 Certificate and Trade Test Certificate
- Any additional qualifications (PLC certifications, safety training, Lean/TPM certificates)
Step 2 – Access the application portal:
- APPLY HERE: Maintenance Technician
Step 3 – Complete the online application:
- Fill in all required fields accurately.
- Upload your CV and supporting documents.
Step 4 – Submit as soon as possible:
- No closing date is specified. Apply immediately – positions like this fill quickly!
Step 5 – What to expect after applying:
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview and/or assessments.
- Be prepared to discuss your technical expertise, leadership experience, and career aspirations.
ALSO APPLY FOR: Service Technician
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum qualification required for this role?
You need an N4 Certificate and must be a Trade Tested Artisan (Millwright) . PLC experience and 3–5 years in an FMCG environment are also essential.
2. I am an Electrician or Mechanical Fitter. Can I still apply?
The role specifically requires a Trade Tested Millwright due to the dual mechanical and electrical nature of the work. However, if you have strong PLC and FMCG experience, it is worth reaching out to CHEP’s recruitment team to inquire.
3. What does FMCG experience mean, and why is it important?
FMCG stands for Fast-Moving Consumer Goods, which includes industries like food and beverage, personal care, and household products. Experience in these fast-paced environments is highly valued because they require quick turnaround times and minimal downtime.
4. Is this a paid position?
Yes – this is a full-time, permanent position with CHEP offering competitive remuneration.
Conclusion – Power Up Your Career with CHEP Today!
The Maintenance Technician role at CHEP in Durban is more than just a job—it is a career-defining opportunity for a skilled, Trade Tested Millwright ready to take their expertise to the next level. With a global leader that values sustainability, diversity, and innovation, this role offers hands-on technical work, leadership responsibilities, and the chance to contribute to a meaningful mission.
If you have the N4 qualification, Millwright trade test, PLC experience, and 3–5 years in an FMCG environment, do not let this opportunity pass you by. Update your CV, highlight your strengths, and hit that apply button today!
