The Opportunity
We are looking for an experienced Heavy Diesel Mechanic to join our Whangarei team on a permanent basis as our new Workshop Manager.
Working on a variety of heavy vehicle brands including Volvo, MAN, Scania, BCI and Mitsubishi, this role is a variety of proactive and active maintenance, managing the established team of Diesel Mechanics and reporting directly into the Regional Maintenance Manager.
You will be responsible for the day to day running of the Workshop, involvement with both diesel and petrol motors, and in the future, EV as we set to decarbonise our fleet.
This role is Monday to Friday, but as our buses operate 24/7, you may occasionally get call outs over the weekend.
As well as your wage, you will also gain a work ute and company phone with professional development and national support there for you too!
About Us
Ritchies is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading passenger transport companies with a team of more than 3,000 people providing coach and charter services right across the country.
We partner with regional councils and schools to supply public transport services as well as offering a range of bus and coach hire services to businesses and the general public. You would be joining us at an exciting time in Ritchies’ history as we gear up to decarbonise our fleet and move to a more sustainable public transport model.
About You
You’re looking for a change, you want to work for a company that values your skills and work ethic and you’re ready to make the move!
You take pride in your work; you’re a team player and you don’t hesitate to ‘go the extra mile’ to get tasks completed in a timely manner.
You're capable of giving clear and concise instructions and do the right thing.
You’re have a strong level of written and spoken English and can establish and keep positive relationships with staff, contractors and other businesses.
You know what the expectation is with Waka Kotahi and follow regulations.
You have experience managing teams, and are a 'lead by example' manager, that is approachable and keen to pass on skills and knowledge.
Health and safety is a priority of yours, and you know the importance of this in the workplace.
Your Skills
• NZQA L4 Heavy Automotive Qualification/ equivalent automotive workshop experience
• Current New Zealand Drivers’ License Class 1 (ideally up to C4)
• Reliable
• Experience managing staff
• Eye for detail
• Health and safety conscious
• Physically capable of lifting up to 25kgs
• Tech savvy
• Enthusiastic attitude
What you get
• Supportive team
• Career progression opportunities
• Fortnightly Pay + Work Ute + Company phone
• All relevant PPE provided
Want to learn more? Just ask us.
We are an equal opportunities employer, that focuses heavily on Health and Safety. As such, our pre-employment checks include drug testing, Ministry of Justice checks and reference checking.
Candidates for this position must have the right to work in New Zealand at the time of application.
To be considered for this role, please apply through the link below with a cover letter and copy of your most recent CV.
Skills Required
- NZQA Level 4 Heavy Automotive qualification or equivalent automotive workshop experience
- Current New Zealand Driver Licence Class 1
- New Zealand Driver Licence up to Class C4 (preferred)
- Experience managing staff / team leadership
- Knowledge of Waka Kotahi expectations and regulations
- Health and safety conscious / commitment to workplace safety
- Physically capable of lifting up to 25 kg
- Strong written and spoken English
- Reliable and punctual
- Tech savvy (able to use workshop systems and mobile tools)
- Able to pass pre-employment checks (drug testing, Ministry of Justice check, reference checks)
- Right to work in New Zealand at time of application
What We Do
Ritchies Transport is a leading New Zealand-based passenger transport company specializing in urban and charter bus services. Founded in 1935, it has grown into one of the country's largest privately owned operators, providing a nationwide network of safe and reliable public transport, school bus services, and coach tours to keep communities connected and moving.






