Mechanic Advisor - GIZ Ghana

The GIZ public-private-partnership program (develoPPP) was established by the German government (BMZ) as a way to support and foster the involvement of the private sector in developing countries and emerging economies. GIZ is currently launching a public-private partnership program focused on the emerging apparel industry in West Africa, with a focus on Ghana. A core aspect of this program involves in-factory Technical Vocational Training to ensure practical learning in industrial settings with a focus on mechanic and preventative maintenance.

Job Description

The Mechanic Advisor is responsible for the design and delivery of mechanics training in Ghana. He/she will be based in Accra, Ghana and will report directly to GIZ, working closely with other experts hired as part of the program, both at GIZ and at the Ethical Apparel Africa Association. This person will also work closely with ATTC to ensure that they are transferring knowledge on how to run this training to local university lecturers.

Duties and responsibilities will include, but not limited to the following:

Tasks

1. Develop a modular curriculum for mechanics covering a range of key topics

• Mechanical assessments (capacities and capabilities) of factories, including identifying gaps in machinery and evaluating state of equipment
• Development of preventative maintenance and inventories system for machinery and accessories

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• Development of gradual knowledge and practice on machines fixing and maintenance as well as equipment accessories
• Collaboration with industrial engineering trainers on the selection of correct machines and accessories to be used to achieve more production-friendly, efficient construction methods during the product development stage
• Planning to ensure machines are maintained mounted and ready to use to replace defective machines in the production line and avoid delay
• Research and recommend machinery suppliers and specific machines needed for production (based on gaps identified in assessments) to the factories
• Development of guides/ folders and other tools necessary for efficient production.
• Set up training for developing profiles for sewing operations.

2. Lead mechanics training sessions, coordinating input from other trainers and experts as required

Your Profile

• Proven experience as a mechanic and a trainer (minimum 10 years’ experience in a factory environment
• Experience in machine settings for a variety of products including Denim, Wovens and Knits.
• Excellent knowledge of garment industry machinery available on the international market - specifically knowledge of electronic, mechanical, automatic thread cutting machines in addition to less sophisticated machines. Knowledge of Auto cutting, Auto Spreading machines and Band Knifes is an advantage.
• Experience in creating profiles for sewing machines.
• Proven experience developing curriculum and conducting training and passion for transferring skills locally and developing capacity in people
• Proven successful experience in managing factory equipment maintenance programs
• Deep understanding of customer markets and experience of working with Western brands from the USA and/or Europe
• Proven experience in conducting factory risks and needs assessments and creating action plans to bring factory to excellence
• Excellent leadership and training skills; ability to coach teams and develop individuals
• Exceptional cross-cultural communication and presentation skills
• Previous working/living experience in a developing country, preferably in Africa
• Fluency in English
• Evidence of the following characteristics: humble, inspiring, self-aware, resilient, adaptable, proactive, persistent, resourceful, able to work under pressure and respect deadlines, strong at building relationships and resolving problems, poised, active listener, fun to work with, and full of integrity