Handyman

Handymen repair and maintain buildings, mechanical equipment, machines, electrical equipment, heating and air-conditioning systems and even plumbing. Handymen will repair anything but need to recognise when they are unable to fix a problem and need to consult a specialist for assistance

Handymen work in various settings. They can be employed in hospitals, colleges, offices, apartment buildings, factories, schools, stores and malls. In small establishments, they are responsible for all types of maintenance, while in large establishments they usually specialise in a particular field.

By preventing equipment from breaking down and deteriorating, handymen aim to solve minor problems before they become more serious ones. They keep records of repairs undertaken and the dates when equipment was last repaired, inspected or serviced. This helps them to establish an inspection and repair schedule, e.g. for replacing filters and for oiling moving parts on machinery. Beginner handymen are given simple tasks, such as changing light bulbs, and as they acquire skills, they are given more and more complex tasks, e.g. repairing air-conditioning motors.

Work is usually indoors, using tools such as spanners, hammers, drills, testing equipment etc.

Personal Requirements

have mechanical aptitude
be helpful and thorough
good with your hands
physically strong
good communication skills

How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution has its own entry requirements.

What to Study

Diploma at a university of technology, or a certificate at a TVET College.

Employment