HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANICAL ENGINEER

JOB SUMMARY

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Mechanical Engineer specializing in heavy equipment to join our operations in Djibouti. The ideal candidate will oversee the maintenance, diagnostics, and repair of a wide range of heavy machinery used in construction and industrial applications. This role requires a hands-on professional with deep mechanical expertise and a proactive approach to equipment reliability and performance.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, and Repair of Heavy Equipment

• Conduct regular inspections on heavy machinery (excavators, loaders, bulldozers, dump trucks) to assess mechanical condition and identify wear, faults, or potential failures.
• Perform diagnostic tests using specialized tools to locate and isolate mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic problems.
• Lead the repair of components such as engines, transmissions, hydraulic pumps, cylinders, and braking systems, ensuring repairs meet manufacturer and safety standards.
• Oversee or directly perform complex mechanical repairs, including engine overhauls, hydraulic system rebuilds, and electrical troubleshooting.
• Supervise field technicians during on-site repairs to ensure technical accuracy and adherence to safety protocols.
• Document repair procedures and generate detailed maintenance reports for equipment history tracking and management review.

Development and Execution of Preventive Maintenance Plans

• Design and implement scheduled maintenance programs tailored to each type of equipment to minimize unplanned downtime and extend operational lifespan.
• Ensure maintenance activities comply with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) guidelines and industry best practices.
• Monitor equipment condition trends through vibration analysis, oil sampling, and thermography, recommending preemptive repairs based on data-driven insights.
• Manage the maintenance calendar, coordinate work schedules, and allocate resources effectively to ensure timely servicing of all machinery.
• Train operators and technicians on proper equipment use and maintenance protocols to reduce operator-caused damage or breakdowns.

Technical Diagnostics and Problem-Solving

• Utilize diagnostic software and handheld devices to conduct fault detection and troubleshooting of hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical systems.
• Interpret technical manuals, wiring diagrams, and hydraulic schematics to trace root causes of equipment failures.
• Provide technical solutions and recommendations for repairs, part replacements, or system modifications to enhance machine reliability.
• Collaborate with equipment manufacturers and vendors for complex technical support and warranty claims.

Safety and Compliance Oversight

• Conduct regular safety inspections of heavy equipment and work sites to identify hazards related to machinery operation and maintenance.
• Enforce strict compliance with company safety policies, local regulatory standards, and international best practices in equipment handling.
• Lead toolbox talks and safety briefings related to mechanical work and heavy equipment operation.
• Investigate incidents or near-misses involving heavy equipment to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry safety standards and emerging regulations relevant to heavy equipment maintenance.

Team Collaboration and Leadership

• Work closely with project managers, site engineers, and operations personnel to ensure equipment readiness aligns with project timelines and priorities.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians by sharing technical knowledge and best practices, fostering continuous skills development.
• Coordinate with procurement and inventory teams to ensure the timely availability of spare parts and tools necessary for maintenance activities.
• Facilitate effective communication between maintenance teams and other departments to resolve equipment-related challenges promptly.

Resource Management and Reporting

• Track equipment downtime, repair costs, and parts usage to help manage the maintenance budget efficiently.
• Prepare and submit detailed maintenance reports, including performance metrics, failure analyses, and improvement recommendations, to management.
• Use computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) or other software tools to log maintenance activities and monitor asset health.
• Assist in procurement processes by evaluating parts specifications and supplier performance for equipment components.

Continuous Improvement and Innovation

• Analyze maintenance data and feedback to identify trends, recurring issues, and opportunities to improve reliability and reduce costs.
• Implement new maintenance technologies, tools, or methodologies to optimize workflow and increase equipment uptime.
• Stay updated on industry advancements, emerging technologies, and new equipment models to enhance knowledge and apply innovative solutions.

KEY REQUIREMENT SKILLS AND QUALIFICATION

• Degree or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum 5–10 years of proven experience in heavy equipment maintenance and repair (construction or mining sector preferred).
• Strong understanding of hydraulic systems, diesel engines, transmission systems, pneumatic controls, and related subsystems.
• Hands-on experience using diagnostic tools, service software, and workshop machinery.
• Familiarity with CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems) is an asset.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and manuals.
• Fluent in English; French proficiency is a plus.
• Willingness to work in remote project sites or field conditions as required.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to operational excellence.

HOW TO APPLY

• If you meet the above qualifications, skills and experience share CV on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Interviews will be carried out on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
• Only the shortlisted candidates will be contacted.