Heavy Diesel Mechanic – Cranes, Plant & Big Gear

Smithcranes; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in crane and plant services seeks a Heavy Diesel Mechanic to join their team. The role involves diagnosing mechanical issues, undertaking repairs, and servicing various equipment. You will benefit from a modern service vehicle, competitive pay, and the chance to work on exciting projects, both locally and overseas.

Benefits

Modern fully equipped service vehicle

Opportunities to work on major projects overseas

Ongoing training and support for upskilling

Qualifications

• 3+ years post-trade experience in heavy diesel mechanics.
• Solid background in servicing and repairing heavy plant or similar equipment.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic and low-voltage electrical faults.
• Undertake breakdown callouts, routine servicing, rebuilds and preventative maintenance.
• Support crane builds, mobilisation/demobilisation, and major overhauls.

Skills

Fault-finding skills

Self-motivated

Reliable

Education

NZ trade qualification (Heavy Diesel or similar)

Job description

Heavy Diesel Mechanic – Cranes, Plant & Big Gear

Ready to take your mechanical career to the next level?
We’re looking for an experienced Heavy Diesel Mechanic to join our high-performing team. You’ll be working with cutting-edge equipment across a broad fleet of cranes and heavy plant, with real opportunities to be part of major infrastructure projects — both in New Zealand and overseas.

About Us

Smith Crane and Construction is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience, offering exceptional service across crane hire, civil construction (including marine civil and pre-cast manufacturing), transportation, and wind energy installation and maintenance. We pride ourselves on our strong team culture, commitment to safety, and continuing our family tradition of excellent customer focus and job execution.

What You’ll Be Doing:

Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic and low-voltage electrical faults across our fleet

Undertake breakdown callouts, routine servicing, rebuilds and preventative maintenance

Work with a diverse range of gear including crawler cranes, tower cranes, excavators, trucks, trailers and loaders

Support crane builds, mobilisation/demobilisation, and major overhauls

Use schematics, diagnostic tools and your technical expertise to deliver high-quality, efficient outcomes

What We’re Offering:

A modern, fully equipped service vehicle for work and commute use

Opportunities to work on major projects overseas — Antarctica, Australia, the Pacific and beyond

Competitive remuneration with time and a half paid after 40 hours

Exposure to industry-leading machinery and a variety of challenging projects

Ongoing training and support for upskilling and certifications

Work alongside an experienced, down-to-earth team in a professional and supportive environment

What You’ll Bring:

NZ trade qualification (Heavy Diesel or similar) with 3+ years’ post-trade experience

Solid background in servicing and repairing heavy plant or similar equipment

Strong fault-finding skills in mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems

Self-motivated, reliable, and able to work independently or as part of a team

Full NZ driver’s licence (Class 2- 5 and WTR endorsements are a bonus)

This role is based in Christchurch, but you’ll have the chance to work on projects across the country and overseas. We’re offering more than just a job — this is a career with real scope.

How to apply:

Please apply using the‘Quick apply’button now.

Please note successful candidates will be subject to pre-employment drug and alcohol testing and a pre-employment medical.

You must also have the right to legally live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this position.

Applications will be assessed as they are received.

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Your application will include the following questions:

How many years' experience do you have as a Heavy Diesel Mechanic? Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand? Are you willing to undergo a pre-employment medical check? Do you have a current New Zealand driver's licence?

What can I earn as a Heavy Diesel Mechanic