Kaylin Vandayar
Project Engineer
Durban
Summary
Strategic Project Engineer with a demonstrated proficiency in heading projects from initiation to completion, adept at optimising workflows and leading teams to accomplish key targets. With a solid track record of five years in managing projects within time and financial sensitive environments, leveraging strong communication and project management judgement to excel in challenging scenarios. Recognised for having a diplomatic approach, with robust leadership, and decisive decision-making capabilities.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Project Supervisor/Mechanical Project Engineer
Sappi Saiccor
Durban
2 2023 - Current
- Skilled in leading end-to-end management of multi-disciplinary projects, ensuring on-time delivery within budgetary constraints
- Proficient in coordinating diverse teams, locally and internationally, to maintain adherence to safety, quality, and regulatory standards
- Proven track record in developing and refining 5-year Capital Expenditure plans, including equipment selection with focus on continuous plant improvements
- Detail-oriented approach to risk identification, assessment, and mitigation, with commitment to upholding project standards and scope. Experienced in hosting key project meetings and risk management activities
Project Engineer
Sappi Tugela
Mandeni
11.2020 - 1 2023
- Developed and oversaw project budgets, planning, and stakeholder communication, ensuring project success within financial and time constraints
- Managed project contracts ranging from R5M and beyond, through vendor management, and measuring of contractor performance through project execution phase, focusing on quality and health and safety compliance
- Directed civil construction projects within the Sappi Landfill Site, including installation and commissioning of key environmental systems, and managed facility repairs for Sappi-owned industrial and residential properties
- Led project planning, administration, and documentation processes, adhering to industry standards and regulations
- Acted as Maintenance Support Engineer for the Paper Machine, overseeing maintenance operations and covering mill-wide engineer standby rotations. Led process optimisation initiatives within shutdown timelines to maximise operational efficiency
Mechanical Technician - Projects & Maintenance
Sappi Tugela
Mandeni
02.2019 - 07.2019
- Managed commissioning of plant projects, coordinating installations, and maintaining stakeholder relationships. Cultivated expertise in escalation management and proficient report writing
- Led night shift operations for R23M pulp digester bottom dome replacement project, supervising both local and international contractors, ensuring seamless progress and handover during annual shutdowns
- Directed general maintenance activities, swiftly resolving breakdowns, and collaborated with production teams to optimize Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and facilitating Root Cause Analysis (RCA) meetings
- Spearheaded pre-shutdown strategic planning, including equipment replacement and procurement of spare parts
- Developed and fine-tuned daily schedules to anticipate progress and address encountered issues, prioritizing tasks for continuous improvement
In-service Trainee
Sappi Tugela
Mandeni
01.2018 - 01.2019
- Completed P1 and P2 Project requirements
- Coordinated projects involving installation of systems, machinery, and components
- Improved machine efficiency by conducting regular maintenance and troubleshooting tasks
- Conducted root cause analysis to identify source of mechanical system malfunctions
- Prepared reports and documentation for mechanical systems and processes
Semi-Skilled Mechanical Fitter
Sappi Tugela - Projects
Mandeni
08.2016 - 01.2018
- Semi-skilled mechanical fitter working on project work, daily breakdowns and scheduled maintenance tasks
- Completed detailed daily inspections of electrical and mechanical equipment to identify issues and ensure limited downtime
- Followed optimum preventative maintenance plans for complex mechanical systems
- Maintained clean and organized work area to easily locate repairing tools and equipment
Education
Post Graduate Diploma - Project Management
Management College of South Africa
Durban, South Africa 06.2023 - Current
Short Course Certificate - Project Management Foundations
University of Cape Town
Cape Town, South Africa 10.2021 - 01.2022
Bachelor of Technology - Mechanical Engineering
Durban University of Technology
Durban, South Africa 07.2019 - 01.2021
National Diploma - Mechanical Engineering
Durban University of Technology
Durban, South Africa 02.2014 - 01.2019
Skills
Microsoft Project
undefinedPhone Number
+27 (0)74 338 4116 or +27 (0)39 973 8425
Email Address
- Kaylin.vandayar@gmail.com
- Kaylin.vandayar@sappi.com
Driver License
Yes (Code B)
Personal Information
- Date of Birth: 03/28/96
- Nationality: South African
Timeline
Post Graduate Diploma - Project Management
Management College of South Africa
06.2023 - Current
Short Course Certificate - Project Management Foundations
University of Cape Town
10.2021 - 01.2022
Project Engineer
Sappi Tugela
11.2020 - 1 2023
Bachelor of Technology - Mechanical Engineering
Durban University of Technology
07.2019 - 01.2021
Mechanical Technician - Projects & Maintenance
Sappi Tugela
02.2019 - 07.2019
In-service Trainee
Sappi Tugela
01.2018 - 01.2019
Semi-Skilled Mechanical Fitter
Sappi Tugela - Projects
08.2016 - 01.2018
National Diploma - Mechanical Engineering
Durban University of Technology
02.2014 - 01.2019
Project Supervisor/Mechanical Project Engineer
Sappi Saiccor
2 2023 - Current
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