Marine Heavy Diesel Lead

Role overview

RealNZ is hiring an experienced Marine Heavy Diesel Lead to take charge of heavy diesel maintenance work across its marine fleet. This position suits someone who enjoys technical problem-solving, developing people, and keeping operations running at a high standard.

What the role involves

You will guide and support a team of Heavy Diesel Technicians, making sure planned servicing and reactive repairs are completed effectively across RealNZ’s marine assets. The role also requires close attention to safety, legal compliance, and accepted industry practices.

Day to day, you’ll provide specialist input on heavy diesel systems, including troubleshooting faults and carrying out engine rebuild support where needed. You’ll work with teams across different locations to coordinate workflows and maintain safe, efficient operations. The role also includes helping shape project planning and execution, balancing maintenance demands with available resources, and being available for urgent call-outs through the on-call roster.

Additional information

This is a permanent, full-time position with guaranteed fortnightly hours. The role is based in Te Anau, Southland, New Zealand, and includes participation in an on-call arrangement for urgent maintenance requirements.

Pay is set at an hourly rate of NZ$45 to NZ$50, with 40 guaranteed hours per week.

About RealNZ

RealNZ describes itself as a tourism-enabled conservation business focused on inspiring people to care for and leave places better than they found them. The organisation offers work in a varied natural environment and highlights a culture built around its values of Pono and He waka eke noa, with an emphasis on inclusion, equity, and diverse perspectives.

Application process

Recruitment is being handled on a rolling basis, so interviews may take place as applications arrive. The employer may close the role early if the right candidate is identified.

Perks and benefits

The package includes medical insurance cover and a free Cardrona x Treble Cone ski/bike pass. Employees can also access RealNZ experiences either free of charge or at a substantial discount for a friend, including white water rafting, the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, Milford and Doubtful Sound cruises, and visits to Rakiura.

Job details

Location: Te Anau
Positions available: 1
Employment type: Permanent, Full Time

Candidate profile

The ideal applicant will bring heavy diesel trade expertise, strong leadership ability, and the confidence to support a busy maintenance environment. Good communication, organisation, diagnostic ability, and computer literacy are important for success in the role.

Requirements summary

This role calls for a trade qualification in heavy diesel or mechanical engineering at NZQA Level 4, a full New Zealand driver’s licence, at least 5 years of heavy diesel maintenance experience, preferably in marine settings, and prior leadership or mentoring experience.

Skills

The role requires strong mechanical troubleshooting, diesel engine diagnostics, maintenance planning, team leadership, mentoring, compliance awareness, project coordination, resource management, communication, organisation, and maintenance systems proficiency.

Employment conditions

Guaranteed fortnightly hours are provided, and the position is permanent and full time. There is no internship duration, and the role starts immediately upon hiring.

Equal opportunity

RealNZ states that it welcomes everyone and values equity, diversity, and inclusion across the workplace.