Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
References
Timeline
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Thabiso Masuku

Thabiso Masuku

Mechanical Engineer & GCC Factories Candidate
Pretoria

Summary

GCC Factories Candidate and ECSA Candidate Engineer with proven experience in project management, maintenance leadership, people management, mechanical workshop operations, and facility management. Skilled in developing and implementing innovative engineering solutions that enhance reliability, efficiency, and operational performance. Committed to workplace safety through strict adherence to health and safety regulations, including OHSA and GMR 2.1 requirements. Adept at delivering high-quality outcomes for customers and stakeholders while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

Line Manager - Dynamic Test Facility

Transnet Freight Rail
09.2022 - Current
  • Lead and manage a multidisciplinary team (two technicians and one superintendent) in a high-performance mechanical test facility.
  • Oversee reliability management, ensuring optimal uptime of machinery and facility systems.
  • Develop, implement, and monitor maintenance procedures, ensuring consistent execution and compliance.
  • Conduct regular facility inspections to identify risks, resolve issues, and improve operational efficiency.
  • Coordinate and schedule meetings with internal teams and external stakeholders to align project priorities.
  • Ensure full compliance with OHSA regulations for machinery.
  • Champion digital enablement initiatives for maintenance and operations improvement.
  • Lead project management activities, from initiation to delivery, ensuring scope, budget, and timeline adherence.
  • Manage procurement of equipment and critical spares to support continuous operations.
  • Conduct internal audits to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
  • Design custom jigs and fixtures using SolidWorks and other CAD software for testing and maintenance purposes.
  • Process and analyze data using nCode, MATLAB, and Excel for performance evaluation and reporting.
  • Lead incident investigations, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
  • Foster a proactive, performance-driven culture focused on safety, reliability, and continuous improvement.

Engineer

Transnet Freight Rail
11.2021 - 08.2022
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute structural testing of new or upgraded locomotives, wagons, and tank container prototypes in compliance with OHSA and other applicable safety standards.
  • Lead project management activities from scope definition to final reporting, ensuring cost, quality, and schedule adherence.
  • Manage procurement of specialized equipment and tools required for testing operations.
  • Prepare, issue, and present detailed technical reports, specifications, and findings to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Utilize advanced technologies to develop innovative systems or enhance existing systems for improved operational efficiency.
  • Review and improve engineering processes and procedures to ensure alignment with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
  • Investigate and recommend improvements for maintenance operations to boost reliability and safety.
  • Conduct and document internal audits to verify compliance with engineering, quality, and safety standards.
  • Lead incident investigations, determine root causes, and implement corrective and preventive actions.
  • Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and technical materials for clients, regulatory bodies, and project partners.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure safe, efficient, and effective execution of testing programmes.

Engineer - in - Training

Transnet Freight Rail
07.2019 - 10.2021
  • Prepare and issue detailed technical reports for both internal teams and external customers, ensuring clarity and regulatory compliance.
  • Develop and write precise technical specifications to guide design, procurement, and testing activities.
  • Mentor mechanical learner technicians, providing technical guidance, practical training, and safety instruction.
  • Review and enhance engineering processes and procedures to align with OHSA, railway safety standards, and best practices.
  • Investigate and recommend improvements to maintenance operations to increase equipment reliability and operational efficiency.
  • Conduct structural verification tests on new locomotives and wagons, ensuring safety and compliance with rail industry standards.
  • Lead root cause failure analyses to identify issues and implement corrective/preventive actions.
  • Coordinate and lead projects from planning to execution, managing resources, timelines, and safety requirements.
  • Ensure process compliance through regular inspections, audits, and documentation reviews.

Education

Master of Engineering Management - Engineering Management

University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg
04.2001 -

Young Leaders Programme - Leadership

Henley Business School
Johannesburg, South Africa
01.2024

Honors Degree in Mechanical Engineering -

University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa
04-2019

Skills

    Data analysis (MATLAB, Excel, nCode)

    Root cause failure analysis (RCFA)

    Asset management (ISO 55000 principles)

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References

  • Molebogeng, Letlape, Senior Engineering Technologist, molebogeng.letlape@transnet.net, 083 717 1548
  • Dr. Emma Molobi, Principal Engineer, emma.molobi@transnet.net, 073 555 2158

Timeline

Line Manager - Dynamic Test Facility

Transnet Freight Rail
09.2022 - Current

Engineer

Transnet Freight Rail
11.2021 - 08.2022

Engineer - in - Training

Transnet Freight Rail
07.2019 - 10.2021

Master of Engineering Management - Engineering Management

University of Johannesburg
04.2001 -

Young Leaders Programme - Leadership

Henley Business School

Honors Degree in Mechanical Engineering -

University of Johannesburg
Thabiso MasukuMechanical Engineer & GCC Factories Candidate