Port Augusta Operations Lead: Fleet Utilisation & Growth

Northeast Auto Group; Port Augusta; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Big Chief Hire, part of the Northeast Auto Group, is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead our Port Augusta site. This hands-on leadership role focuses on daily operations, customer relationships, and ensuring equipment availability and profitability.

You will manage a small team, drive utilisation, oversee bookings and maintenance, and work to grow the business across the region while upholding BCH safety standards and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Proven operational management experience, preferably in hire/maintenance sectors.
• Experience leading a small operational team with accountability.
• Strong commercial awareness focused on utilisation, service and profitability.
• Ability to build lasting customer relationships and identify new business opportunities.
• Knowledge of fleet maintenance practices and compliance requirements.
• Excellent planning and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the Port Augusta site.
• Lead, support and provide direction to the Hire Controller and Yard Hand.
• Drive equipment utilisation and ensure the fleet is deployed to meet demand.
• Develop and maintain relationships with customers and identify new hire opportunities.
• Oversee hire enquiries, bookings, allocation, mobilisation and returns.
• Ensure equipment availability and minimise downtime; coordinate servicing and maintenance.
• Raise and manage repair orders, invoices and stock records; ensure compliance with BCH/OEM specs.
• Promote safety and maintain a high standard of site and yard presentation.

Skills

Operations management

Team leadership

Customer service

Relationship building

MS Office proficiency

ERP/equipment hire systems

Driver's licence

Tools

ERP system (equipment hire)

MS Office

Fleet management software

Job description

Big Chief Hire, part of the Northeast Auto Group, is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead our Port Augusta site. This hands-on leadership role focuses on daily operations, customer relationships, and ensuring equipment availability and profitability.

You will manage a small team, drive utilisation, oversee bookings and maintenance, and work to grow the business across the region while upholding BCH safety standards and regulatory compliance.