United Refineries Limited is seeking a skilled Mechanical Fitter and Turner to join its team.
Job Title: Mechanical Fitter and Turner
Job Location: Zimbabwe
Closing Date: 26 September 2026
Work Format: On-site
The successful candidate will be responsible for machining, fitting, assembling, and maintaining industrial mechanical equipment and production machinery to optimise efficiency and minimise downtime.
Job Summary
- Employer: United Refineries Limited
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-09-26
Key Responsibilities
- Precision machining, turning, milling, and fabrication of mechanical parts using manual lathes, milling machines, and workshop equipment.
- Diagnosing, overhauling, repairing, and maintaining mechanical plant equipment, conveyors, pumps, gearboxes, and hydraulic/pneumatic systems.
- Reading and interpreting technical blueprints, engineering drawings, and specifications to assemble complex machinery components.
- Performing routine servicing and scheduled maintenance checks to prevent operational failures.
- Rapidly identifying root causes of mechanical breakdowns and executing timely corrective actions.
- Strictly adhering to workshop safety standards, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality guidelines.
Requirements
- Class 1 Journeyman or equivalent.
- 3 years of hands-on post-apprenticeship experience as a Fitter and Turner in a manufacturing industrial environment.
- Proficient in operating manual lathes, milling, drilling, and grinding machinery.
- Strong expertise in hydraulics, pneumatics, drive systems, and power transmission.
- Ability to read and interpret complex engineering blueprints and schematic diagrams.
- Strong problem-solving ability.
- High attention to detail.
- Physical stamina.
- Ability to work well under pressure.
How to Apply
Apply by email: hr@url.co.zw
About the Company
United Refineries Limited operates its industrial facilities from Khami Road Extension, Kelvin Industrial Sites, in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. The company is prominently involved in refining operations within the Zimbabwean market. As an established entity, it plays a role in the local industrial landscape of Bulawayo. United Refineries Limited is dedicated to contributing to the processing sector across Zimbabwe.
Industrial refining operations based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Website: https://url.co.zw/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become a Mechanical Fitter and Turner at a company like United Refineries Limited?
You typically need a National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Fitting and Turning) from a recognized institution such as Harare Polytechnic or Bulawayo Polytechnic. A completed apprenticeship and trade test certification from the Zimbabwe Manpower Development Fund (ZIMDEF) are usually essential. Some employers also value additional certifications in welding, hydraulics, or pneumatics.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Mechanical Fitter and Turner in a refinery setting?
Daily tasks include installing, maintaining, and repairing mechanical equipment such as pumps, compressors, conveyors, and processing machinery. You will read technical drawings, fabricate precision parts using lathes and milling machines, and conduct routine inspections to prevent breakdowns. Safety compliance and accurate record-keeping of maintenance activities are also critical responsibilities.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ for engineering roles in Zimbabwe compared to other countries?
Zimbabwean employers generally expect strong punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and willingness to work overtime when production demands require it. Personal relationships and professional reputation carry significant weight, so reliability and demonstrating loyalty to your employer are highly valued. You may also encounter resource constraints, requiring creativity and adaptability with limited tools or spare parts.
What career progression opportunities exist for a Mechanical Fitter and Turner in Zimbabwe's industrial sector?
With experience, you can advance to supervisory roles such as Workshop Foreman or Maintenance Supervisor, or specialize in areas like condition monitoring or CNC machining. Further studies through the Zimbabwe Institute of Engineers can lead to technician or technologist status. Some experienced fitters and turners eventually transition into plant management, technical sales, or establish their own engineering workshops.
What benefits are typically offered to Mechanical Fitters and Turners in full-time Zimbabwean engineering positions?
Standard benefits usually include annual leave as prescribed by the Labour Act, limited medical aid coverage, and participation in a pension scheme such as NSSA or a company-specific fund. Some larger employers provide housing or transport allowances, protective clothing, and tool allowances. The specific package varies significantly by employer size and sector, with mining and large manufacturing generally offering more comprehensive benefits.
How should I apply for a Mechanical Fitter and Turner position, and what do Zimbabwean employers prioritize in candidates?
Submit a detailed CV highlighting your apprenticeship, trade test results, and any hands-on experience with specific machinery relevant to the employer's industry. Employers prioritize practical problem-solving skills, proven safety awareness, and verifiable references from previous supervisors or apprenticeship mentors. Attending interviews prepared to demonstrate technical knowledge and willingness to learn company-specific systems gives you a strong advantage.
