Workshop Lead

Neptune Pacific Direct Line (NPDL) is the leading shipping company connecting Asia, Australia and NZ to the Pacific.  We are experiencing a period of significant growth, building capacity and capability across our network.  We operate 11 containerships, moving +240k TEU across various ports in 16 countries, in partnership with Maersk, CMA/ANL and PIL.  NPDL is part of The Wonderful Company headquartered in the USA (including Fiji Water).

JVT, a proud member of the NPDL family, specialises in delivering reliable, efficient transport solutions across New Zealand. With a strong reputation for handling a diverse range of cargo, including containerised goods and bulk freight, JVT is dedicated to supporting the seamless flow of goods for NPDL’s customers.   

We’re seeking a qualified Heavy Diesel Mechanic with strong leadership and planning capability to take on the role of Workshop Lead. This is a hands-on leadership position responsible for managing the maintenance, repair, and engineering activities of our internal fleet (trucks, trailers, and container handlers) as well as selected external customer equipment.

Here is what you will be doing:

Reporting to the Transport Manager, you’ll lead a team of mechanics and work collaboratively with our Transport and Depot Operations teams to plan and manage all servicing, maintenance, and repair activities. You’ll balance hands-on mechanical work with effective leadership, workshop planning, and administration.

In this role, you will:

• Oversee and manage all workshop operations including heavy vehicle, trailer, and container-handling equipment maintenance and repair.
• Plan and schedule servicing and repairs in coordination with Transport and Depot teams to minimise downtime and maximise efficiency.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a small team, promoting accountability, teamwork, and a strong safety culture.
• Carry out hands-on heavy diesel mechanical work as part of the team.
• Manage inventory, parts ordering, consumables, and monthly stocktakes.
• Oversee workshop safety, compliance, and housekeeping.
• Maintain accurate maintenance and service records.
• Support engineering and fabrication projects, including trailer builds and custom work.
• Liaise with suppliers and external customers, including quoting and managing external repair or fabrication requests.
• Promote and uphold Transam’s values of safety, quality, and reliability in every aspect of workshop operations.

What You Bring to the Table:

You’re a motivated and qualified Heavy Diesel Mechanic who takes pride in both your workmanship and your ability to lead others. You’ll have a practical, problem-solving approach, enjoy working as part of a high-performing operations team, and know how to plan and deliver on multiple priorities.  You will also have:

•    Trade qualification as a Heavy Diesel Mechanic (essential).
•    Welding experience and ideally a welding qualification (preferred).
•    Approximately 10 years’ experience in a workshop or fleet maintenance environment.
•    Proven ability to plan and manage maintenance activities across multiple assets and priorities.
•    Strong leadership experience managing small technical teams.
•    Experience with trailers, fabrication, and trailer builds (ability to quote work is an advantage).
•    Excellent communication, time management, and problem-solving skills.
•    Sound understanding of NZTA compliance and Land Transport regulations.
•    A current and clean NZ Class 5 driver’s licence.
•    Strong commitment to Health & Safety and a proactive, hands-on work ethic.

This is a full-time permanent role based in Auckland. You will have the right to live and work in New Zealand at the time of applying. The successful candidate may be subject to undergo a Police Check and/or Pre-Employment Drug Test.

Our NPDL Contribution:

• Competitive benefits package (hourly rate plus bonus)
• Opportunity for development and internal mobility
• Wonderful Giving - allows you to donate company money to causes of your choice.
• Wonderful Neighbour - spend a day in the community helping with various service projects.
• Company focused on wellness and health

This is an excellent opportunity to take ownership of a vital operational function within a respected transport organisation. You’ll be part of a supportive team culture that values safety, integrity, and professionalism — where your leadership directly contributes to our performance and reputation in the industry.

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