Operations Manager – Path To General Manager

Work Canterbury; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent remuneration package

Varied role: workshop, on-vessel, and

Long-term career growth in a key role

Job summary

Work Canterbury in Christchurch is seeking an experienced Operations Manager Path to General Manager to lead marine engineering operations from workshop to waterfront. This hands-on leadership role combines marine engineering, operations management and customer relationship management.

This is a great opportunity for a Senior Marine Engineer, Marine Engineering Supervisor or experienced Marine Engineer looking to move into a role with more responsibility, leadership and customer interaction —

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a marine engineer on vessels.
• Strong knowledge of marine engines, propulsion, hydraulics, electrical and mechanical systems.
• Experience in operations, supervision or management within the marine industry.
• Confident communication with skippers, customers and internal teams.
• Hands-on, practical approach with ability to jump on the tools.
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Full New Zealand driver's licence.

Responsibilities

• Managing day-to-day marine engineering operations across a range of commercial and private vessels.
• Carrying out hands-on maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting when required.
• Meeting with skippers, vessel owners, and customers to understand operational needs and provide technical solutions.
• Planning and coordinating maintenance schedules and project work.
• Leading and supporting a team of marine engineers and technicians.
• Ensuring all work is completed safely, on time, and to industry standards.
• Building long-term relationships with customers through exceptional service and communication.

Skills

Marine Engineering

Operations Management

Customer Relationships

Leadership

Hands-on Troubleshooting

Scheduling & Planning

Problem Solving

Job description

Operations Manager Path To General Manager

Lead from the workshop to the waterfront. Great opportunity to join an established team working out of Lyttelton. We’re looking for an experienced Marine Engineering Operations Manager who knows vessels inside and out. This is a hands‑on leadership role that combines marine engineering, operations management, and customer relationship management.

This is a great opportunity for a Senior Marine Engineer, Marine Engineering Supervisor or experienced Marine Engineer looking to move into a role with more responsibility, leadership and customer interaction — without giving up the hands‑on side of the job.

You'll spend time on the tools when needed, work closely with skippers and vessel owners, and ensure jobs are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest standard.

If you thrive in a fast‑paced marine environment and enjoy building strong customer relationships, we’d love to hear from you.

What you’ll be doing

• Managing day‑to‑day marine engineering operations across a range of commercial and private vessels.
• Carrying out hands‑on maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting when required.
• Meeting with skippers, vessel owners, and customers to understand operational needs and provide technical solutions.
• Planning and coordinating maintenance schedules and project work.
• Leading and supporting a team of marine engineers and technicians.
• Ensuring all work is completed safely, on time, and to industry standards.
• Building long‑term relationships with customers through exceptional service and communication.

What we’re looking for

• Proven experience as a Marine Engineer working on vessels (essential).
• Strong knowledge of marine engines, propulsion systems, hydraulics, electrical, and mechanical systems.
• Experience in operations, supervision, or management within the marine industry.
• Confident communicating with skippers, customers, and internal teams.
• Practical, hands‑on approach with the ability to jump on the tools when needed.
• Excellent organisational and problem‑solving skills.
• Full New Zealand driver's licence

What’s on offer

• Salary: NZ$100,000 – NZ$120,000 per year depending on experience.
• Excellent remuneration package, including additional benefits for the right candidate.
• A varied role with a mix of workshop, on‑vessel, and customer‑facing work.
• Opportunity to work with a respected marine business and a great team.
• Long‑term career growth in a key leadership position.