Workshop Manager

Our client in Papua New Guinea is seeking a Workshop Manager to lead a sizeable workshop team (approximately 70 people) to support their freight management business in Lae, Papua New Guinea. This role is available to both citizens and non-citizens ('expats') of Papua New Guinea.

The Workshop Manager will be responsible for leading a busy maintenance workshop function, that supports a fleet of trucks, forklifts, side-loaders and light vehicles operating in challenging conditions. It requires a leader and problem solver who is well organised to coordinate resources.  Representing the company to liaise with internal and external contacts is also important as is ensuring work is delivered safely, on time and to a quality standard.

Key Accountabilities:

• Provide leadership to a team of supervisors, mechanics, inventory and administration staff which includes safety, performance and conformance monitoring
  
  
• Manage maintenance and repairs in and out of the workshop

• Manage all levels of servicing, maintenance and repairs of all trucks, light fleet, lifting equipment and mobile plant

• Capable of following the repair process from fault analysis to completion as well as supervising and guiding others.

• Prioritise and delegate work within the team

• Liaise with other managers with regard to required repairs and part ordering

• Liaise with suppliers, source parts and compare prices

• Administrative duties internal systems, inspections, servicing, etc

• Ensure teams conduct daily toolbox talks before work commencement, prioritize work and build a positive, effective safety culture within the team.

• Train new and existing staff and provide opportunities for existing staff where possible

• Take responsibility and follow up - communicate with other Business Unit managers, provide solid leadership and development to a diverse team. 

The following skills and attributes are important:

• Active leadership - this role requires someone willing to work closely with their teams and stakeholders.  Be present and hands-on and trusted by their staff to make sound decisions.

• Heavy forklift, reach stacker and side lifter maintenance experience

• Previous experience working and living overseas especially in developing country environments.

• Diploma or equivalent in mechanical/automotive or related field. Management training and education also valued.

• 10 years experience managing a workshop, particularly attached to the transport industry

• Knowledge of mechanical issues, warranties, service and general repairs as well as best practice and innovations in fleet maintenance.

• Strong analytical, communication and inter-personal skills with administrative competence vital for this role.

• Computer literate with a solid understanding of Microsoft and basic financial applications.

Other considerations

• This is a full time role in Lae (PNG) with some regional travel.  It is a long-term opportunity for the right person, with contract-completion incentives.  Accommodation will be provided for the right candidate. Our client is seeking a fit, healthy, energetic candidate who has both technical experience but also the desire and ability to lead & motivate a diverse team, working in a challenging environment.