The successful candidate must be highly attentive to detail, proactive in identifying faults and quick to respond to production machinery breakdowns to minimize downtime and ensure operational efficiency.
Job Summary
- Employer: Polypackaging Pvt Ltd
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-10-16
Key Responsibilities
- Respond promptly to electrical and electronic faults affecting production machinery.
- Diagnose, troubleshoot and rectify faults accurately to minimise downtime and prevent recurring breakdowns.
- Maintain and repair industrial electrical and electronic control systems.
- Carry out preventive and corrective maintenance on production equipment.
- Troubleshoot electrical control panels, sensors, relays, contactors, motors and electronic components.
- Interpret electrical circuit diagrams, wiring diagrams and technical manuals.
- Identify potential equipment failures and recommend appropriate corrective measures.
- Maintain accurate records of breakdowns, repairs and maintenance activities.
- Observe all electrical safety procedures and company standards.
Requirements
- A recognised qualification in Industrial Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Electronics or an equivalent relevant field.
- Proven experience in industrial electrical maintenance, preferably within a manufacturing or production environment.
- Strong practical knowledge of industrial electronics, electrical control circuits and fault diagnosis.
- Experience troubleshooting production machinery and electronic control systems.
- Knowledge of PLCs, variable frequency drives (VFDs) and industrial automation will be an added advantage.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become an industrial electrician in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a National Certificate or Diploma in Electrical Engineering from institutions like Harare Polytechnic or Bulawayo Polytechnic. A valid Journeyman or Class 1 Electrician's license from the Electricity Supply Authority is essential. Additional certifications in PLC programming, VSD drives, or electronics repair give candidates a competitive edge.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an industrial electrician in a packaging manufacturing environment?
Daily tasks include troubleshooting and repairing automated packaging machinery, maintaining motor control systems, and calibrating sensors and electronic components. You will perform preventive maintenance on conveyor systems, HMIs, and pneumatic circuits. Documentation of faults and spare parts inventory management are also standard responsibilities.
How does workplace culture and employer expectations differ for industrial electricians in Zimbabwe compared to other countries?
Zimbabwean manufacturing employers often expect flexibility with overtime during production peaks and lean staffing conditions. Hierarchical respect for senior technicians and supervisors remains important, and punctuality is strictly enforced despite transport challenges in cities like Harare. Practical problem-solving skills are valued more highly than theoretical knowledge in many shop-floor environments.
What career progression opportunities exist for industrial electricians in Zimbabwe's manufacturing sector?
With experience, electricians typically advance to Maintenance Supervisor or Electrical Foreman roles overseeing teams of technicians. Further progression to Plant Engineer or Maintenance Manager positions is possible with additional qualifications in engineering management. Some professionals transition into specialized automation consulting or establish their own electrical contracting businesses serving industrial clients.
What benefits should I expect from a manufacturing employer like Polypackaging in Zimbabwe?
Standard benefits usually include annual leave of 21-30 days, limited medical aid coverage, and participation in a pension scheme such as NSSA or a private fund. Some employers provide transport allowances or subsidized meals during shifts. Housing allowances and performance bonuses vary significantly by company size and profitability.
How should I apply for industrial electrician positions, and what do Zimbabwean employers prioritize in candidates?
Submit applications through company websites, recruitment agencies like CV People Africa, or directly at factory premises with a detailed CV and certified copies of qualifications. Employers prioritize hands-on experience with industrial automation, proven troubleshooting abilities, and references from previous manufacturing supervisors. Demonstrating familiarity with brands like Siemens, Schneider, or Allen-Bradley during interviews strengthens your candidacy.