We are seeking an experienced and strategically minded Maintenance Manager to lead our engineering and maintenance function and drive a significant shift towards proactive, preventative and predictive maintenance.
This is a senior leadership position responsible for maximising the reliability, availability, maintainability and lifecycle performance of the Company’s plant and equipment. The successful candidate will be expected to establish and continuously improve a structured maintenance management system that reduces reactive maintenance, prevents recurring failures and supports consistent production performance.
The role will lead the development and implementation of world-class maintenance practices, including preventative and predictive maintenance programmes, condition monitoring, reliability-centred maintenance, maintenance planning and the use of a Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS). A key focus will be on using maintenance data, equipment criticality, failure trends and performance metrics to move the organisation from a reactive maintenance environment towards a planned, data-driven and reliability-focused maintenance culture.
The Maintenance Manager will also provide strategic leadership across asset lifecycle management, shutdown and scheduled maintenance, capital projects, engineering governance, contractor management, maintenance budgets and continuous improvement initiatives.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Walvis Bay
- Category: Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-09-07
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive preventative, predictive and condition-based maintenance strategy across the operation.
- Establish robust maintenance plans, schedules, standards and systems that improve equipment reliability and reduce unplanned downtime.
- Drive the effective implementation and utilisation of the CMMS, ensuring accurate asset registers, maintenance history, work orders, spares and maintenance schedules.
- Lead reliability improvement initiatives, including Root Cause Failure Analysis, equipment criticality assessments and Reliability-Centred Maintenance.
- Analyse maintenance data and trends to identify recurring failures, emerging risks and opportunities for improvement.
- Improve key maintenance performance indicators including plant availability, reliability, MTBF, MTTR, preventative maintenance compliance and reactive maintenance.
- Lead major shutdowns and scheduled maintenance activities, ensuring effective planning, execution and post-shutdown review.
- Develop asset lifecycle, refurbishment and replacement strategies to optimise the total cost of ownership and useful life of critical assets.
- Provide technical leadership for capital projects and ensure new equipment and assets are effectively incorporated into the maintenance system.
- Lead and develop a high-performing multidisciplinary maintenance team and build a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Manage maintenance OPEX and CAPEX budgets, contractors, resources and cost-control initiatives.
- Ensure compliance with applicable engineering, statutory, HSE and asset management requirements.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering or a related Engineering discipline.
- Minimum 10 years’ experience in a heavy industrial, mining or continuous manufacturing environment.
- Minimum 5 years’ experience leading multidisciplinary teams.
- Demonstrated experience in reliability engineering, maintenance planning, CMMS, asset lifecycle management, shutdown management, capital projects and maintenance cost management.
- Strong practical knowledge of preventative and predictive maintenance, condition monitoring and Reliability-Centred Maintenance.
- Experience using maintenance performance data and analytics to drive business decisions and improve asset reliability.
- Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies such as TPM, WCM, Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma will be advantageous.
- Project Management and/or Maintenance/Asset Management certification will be advantageous.
- Valid driver’s licence.
How to Apply
About the Company
Walvis Bay Salt Holdings (Pty) Ltd stands as a key holding company within Namibia's essential salt production sector. Operating through its diverse subsidiaries, the company is primarily engaged in the sustainable extraction, refining, and supply of high-quality salt products. Strategically located in Walvis Bay, Namibia, it serves both domestic and international markets with vital commodities derived from the coastal environment. Walvis Bay Salt Holdings significantly contributes to the nation's economic development and provides employment opportunities within the region.
Namibia's leading salt producer, operating sustainably in Walvis Bay.
Website: https://www.wbsalt.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
What typical qualifications and certifications are expected for a Maintenance Manager in a Namibian industrial environment?
Candidates usually need a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or a relevant B.Tech/National Diploma. Professional certifications like a Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) are highly valued, especially in environments with heavy machinery or regulatory requirements. Practical experience in a supervisory maintenance role within a plant or industrial setting is also crucial.
Can you describe the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Maintenance Manager in a processing plant or industrial operation?
A Maintenance Manager typically oversees routine and preventative maintenance schedules, manages a team of technicians, and coordinates with production to minimize downtime. This includes budget management for maintenance activities, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives for equipment reliability. Problem-solving unexpected breakdowns and optimizing maintenance processes are also key daily tasks.
What are the common work culture and management expectations in Namibian industrial companies, particularly in coastal areas like Walvis Bay?
Namibian industrial culture often emphasizes practical problem-solving, adherence to safety protocols, and a strong sense of team collaboration. Managers are expected to be hands-on, demonstrate leadership by example, and foster a respectful and productive working environment. Punctuality, reliability, and clear communication are also highly valued attributes.
What are realistic career progression paths for a Maintenance Manager within a larger industrial or manufacturing company in Namibia?
A Maintenance Manager can realistically progress to roles such as Engineering Manager, Operations Manager, or even Plant Manager, overseeing broader aspects of the site. Further specialization in areas like asset management or reliability engineering, or moving into corporate technical roles, are also viable paths. Continuous professional development and demonstrated success in optimizing maintenance operations are key to advancement.
What typical benefits can a Maintenance Manager expect in Namibia, such as leave, medical aid, and pension?
Most reputable Namibian employers offer competitive benefits packages for managerial positions. This typically includes a generous annual leave allocation, comprehensive medical aid coverage, and a company-contributed pension fund. Other benefits might include disability benefits, life insurance, and occasionally a company vehicle or fuel allowance, depending on the role's requirements.
How should one typically apply for a Maintenance Manager role in Namibia, and what do employers prioritize in candidates?
The best way to apply is usually through online job portals, company websites, or professional recruitment agencies specializing in engineering roles. Namibian employers prioritize candidates with proven industrial maintenance experience, strong leadership skills, and a solid understanding of local safety regulations. A well-structured CV highlighting relevant projects and achievements, along with a tailored cover letter, is essential.
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