Workshop Technician

Thelning Design Innovation; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Thelning Design Innovation in Canterbury, New Zealand is seeking a Workshop Technician to support the manufacture, assembly, testing and delivery of custom machinery on-site. You will work with engineers to translate drawings into practical tasks and ensure quality standards are met.

Ideal candidates have a practical mindset, good communication and attention to detail, with basic experience in workshop machinery.

Qualifications

• Trade qualification or apprenticeship in mechanical engineering or related field.
• Experience with workshop machinery and tools is helpful.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the construction of custom machinery.
• Interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Collaborate with engineers and other team members to troubleshoot issues and refine designs.
• Ensure high-quality technical standards are consistently met.
• Maintain workshop organization and perform routine equipment checks.
• Monitor stock levels of materials and consumables.
• Adhere to all health and safety requirements.

Skills

Practical

Attention to detail

Communication

Time management

Health & safety awareness

Team collaboration

Education

Trade qualification or apprenticeship in mechanical engineering/related field

Tools

Lathes

Milling machines

Drills

Welding equipment

Hand tools

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Thelning Design Innovation – Wigram, South Island

The Workshop Technician is a full-time, on-site role based in Canterbury, New Zealand.
This role will support the successful manufacture, assembly, testing and delivery of custom machinery.

Key responsibilities

Assist with the construction of custom machinery

Interpret engineering drawings and specifications

Collaborate with engineers and other team members to troubleshoot issues & refine designs

Ensure high-quality technical standards are consistently met

Maintain workshop organization and perform routine equipment checks

Monitor stock levels of materials and consumables

Adhere to all health and safety requirements

About you

Positive attitude & willing to learn

Practical & capable

Relevant trade qualification or apprenticeship in mechanical engineering, fitting and turning, machining, or a closely related field (helpful but not necessary)

Experience with workshop machinery and tools, such as lathes, mills, drills, welding equipment, and hand tools (helpful but not necessary)

Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, schematics, and technical specifications, and translate them into practical workshop tasks

Understanding of basic mechanical principles, materials, tolerances, and fastening methods

Strong attention to detail, quality-focused workmanship, and accurate measurement and inspection skills

Effective communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a small team

Proactive approach to health and safety, including hazard awareness, risk mitigation, and adherence to workshop procedures and regulations

Ability to manage time and prioritize tasks

About us

Thelning Design Innovation (TDI) was established in 2016 to provide New Zealand customers with innovative design and effective engineering solutions.
The company develops custom machinery, automation equipment and robotic solutions for a wide range of use cases across many industries. TDI also provides product design services in metal, plastic and composite materials.
The team is committed to high technical standards, strong value, supporting one another and providing ongoing support for clients.