Workshop Manager

About us:

Established in 1958, Culham Engineering is one of New Zealand’s largest privately owned fully integrated project management, fabrication, and construction companies. We have over 67 years’ experience in heavy engineering, petrochemical, industrial, and the construction industry with branches in Whangarei, Kawerau and Auckland.

The Opportunity:

Are you an experienced Workshop Manager or operational leader with a strong background in heavy engineering, fabrication, and industrial projects?

We are looking for a Workshop Manager to lead our Kawerau Workshop.

This is a key role responsible for overseeing and managing all workshop operations to ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. The role oversees production planning, resource management, workforce leadership, and continuous improvement, while ensuring compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead, mentor, and support workshop teams to deliver high-quality outcomes

Oversee production planning, scheduling, and workflow management

Coordinate labour, materials, equipment, and subcontractor resources to meet project requirements

Monitor operational performance, including productivity, efficiency, and costs against budget

Ensure compliance with quality standards and QA/QC processes

Identify and address production risks, delays, or bottlenecks

Drive continuous improvement initiatives across workshop operations

Promote a strong health, safety, and environmental culture

Maintain effective communication with internal teams, clients, and key stakeholders

Essential Qualification, Experience & Skills:

Trade Qualification in Heavy Fabrication (Level 4) or experience in heavy fabrication and piping, industrial Projects & Maintenance

Minimum of 5 years’ experience in similar role

Proven experience in production manufacturing, fabrication, or industrial manufacturing management

Strong knowledge of welding, fabrication, and heavy steel manufacturing processes

Familiarity with ISO, AS/NZS, and QA/QC requirements

Experience implementing or working within Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement frameworks would be advantageous

Demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate, and deliver production schedules effectively

Proficiency in production planning software and Microsoft Office Suite

Strong leadership and team management capabilities

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments

High-level problem-solving and decision-making ability

Strong organisational and planning skills, with attention to detail

Ability to work under pressure, prioritise tasks, and meet deadlines

What’s on offer:

Permanent Full Time Position

Minimum of 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Competitive salary package dependent on skills and experience

Supportive and collaborative team environment

* Opportunity to drive performance and continuous improvement

This position is only open to candidates who are New Zealand residents or who are able to work legally in New Zealand.

If you are interested in joining our team please forward your CV and covering letter to [email protected].

The close date for applications is Friday, 24 October 2026.

ISO 9001, ISO14001 and ISO45001

Standards Australia

www.culham.co.nz