Lead-Robotics and Automation Fresh Start: Vacation Work Programme Warehouse Supervisor

  • Full Time
  • KwaZulu-Natal
  • Applications have closed

Website Defy Appliances

Defy Appliances (Pty) Ltd is Southern Africa’s largest manufacturer and distributor of major domestic appliances. The company markets its products under the Defy brand and offers the consumer a full range of kitchen, laundry and small domestic appliances. Established in 1905, Defy made its debut … read moreby manufacturing the first electric stove in South Africa. In the last 112 years, the brand has further entrenched its footprint in South African households through manufacturing durable goods such as gas ovens, washing machines, dryers and ovens. This led to Defy becoming the biggest white goods manufacturer in the country while presenting the largest product range in South Africa. In 2011 Defy was attained by leading Turkish home appliance group, Arçelik. Having operations in durable consumer goods industry with production, marketing and after-sales services, Arçelik offers products and services around the world with its 30,000 employees, 18 different production facilities in 7 countries. Please note that in order to purchase any product or for pricing queries, you will need to visit a retail outlet that sells kitchen and laundry appliances. Defy operates three factories: Jacobs Ezakheni (Ladysmith) East London All factories have been accredited in terms of ISO 9001-2009. Our products can be viewed online at www.defy.co.za or by visiting the various dealers countrywide Sales & service centres are available country wide in the major provinces – please refer to our website www.defy.co.za for contact details and addresses. Also like and follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/DefySouthAfrica/, Twitter twitter.com/defy_sa, Instagram instagram.com/defysa/. Defy’s Cooking Appliance Range is at the heart of our business, bringing style to the ritual of baking and excitement to the idea of preparing a family feast in your home. Our Gemini Collection boasts a sleek and sophisticated new design, coupled with Feast Master Capacity, ideal for bulk cooking. Defy’s signature Thermofan Technology allows you to use both baking trays at the same time, cooking multiple dishes simultaneously without any flavour or aroma transfer. Defy has recently included a stylish range of small domestic appliance which includes a range of blenders, juicers and coffee makers. Our Cooling range has extensive range of NO FROST fridges which offers both DUAL COOLING technology (which basically means there is fan in the fridge for greater humidity control – better energy efficiency, better odour control, fresher food for longer) and a 4 star freezer. Our DFF420 offers sophisticated Blue Light Technology, extending the life of your fresh produce. Defy also offers the largest capacity in the market with a 1 meter wide range. All Defy units offer an Auto Defrost fridge section, allows even static units to automatically drain any excess liquid through the back. Defy’s well-renowned chest freezer range offers a multimode function, allowing you the freedom to convert your unit between a fridge, chiller and freezer. Our laundry range boasts Aquafusion technology in our front loaders which maximises washing power efficiency ensuring you get the most out of your detergent. Surf’s up with Defy Aquawave drum technology in both top and front loaders. The technology aids in more effective washing. The company supports its brand position further through its own sales, warehousing, and distribution and after sales service functions. 135 Teakwood Rd, Jacobs, 4052, Durban, South Africa

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Robotics and Automation Lead to join our factory operations team. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of robotics, automation, continuous improvement (CI) maintenance and control systems, with the ability to solve complex technical challenges.
Acting as the key link between maintenance, production, and engineering teams, you will ensure automated systems, control networks, and process instrumentation are maintained and optimized for reliability, efficiency, and safety.

Key Responsibilities

Lead a team of engineers and technicians in designing, developing, and implementing automated solutions and maintenance strategies
Develop and execute the company’s robotics and automation strategy to improve efficiency and safety
Oversee installation, testing, and maintenance of automated systems, ensuring compliance with safety standards
Research and evaluate new technologies to drive innovation in automation processes
Run an efficient maintenance operation to meet production targets and customer demand
Drive zero-breakdown initiatives and reduce production downtime
Perform scheduled, routine, and planned preventative maintenance to minimize unplanned downtime
Diagnose breakdowns and ensure timely repairs to maximize equipment availability
Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
Manage maintenance tools, equipment, spares, and budget control
Apply technical skills to resolve day-to-day plant issues
Ensure compliance with OSH Act and regulatory requirements

Minimum Qualifications & Skills

Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (preferred)
N6 with Trade Test or Associate Degree in a technical field with 10+ years of relevant experience
Robotics certifications (e.g., Certified Robotics Technician, Certified Automation Professional)
PMP certification (advantageous)
GCC Factories or GMR 2.1 Certificate (advantageous)
Safety certifications (e.g., OSHA) (advantageous)
Strong knowledge of automation principles and technologies (PLC programming, SCADA, HMI design)
Experience with industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus)
Proficiency in robot programming languages (ABB, FESTO, Fanuc TP, Motoman Inform)
Familiarity with robot operating systems (ROS, Linux)
Solid understanding of electrical and mechanical systems
Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings

Physical Requirements

Ability to move freely in a manufacturing environment (walking, standing, bending, kneeling)
Ability to lift and carry objects up to 30kg occasionally
Excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for technical tasks
Good visual acuity and hearing for equipment inspection and troubleshooting

Closing Date 28 November 2025

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Apply via company website ( https://www.defy.co.za ) or

 

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