Leading Hand - Materials Handling Equipment

About the Company Hyster New Zealand is a proud member of the Adaptalift Group, recognized as one of Australasia's largest and most rapidly expanding companies in materials handling hire and sales. With over 40 years of experience, we emphasize a family-operated and values-driven approach, prioritizing safety and customer satisfaction in everything we do. About the Role We are currently seeking a Leading Hand for our Dunedin branch. In this role, you will serve as the right-hand person to our Service Manager, effectively bridging the gap between our workshop technicians and scheduling tasks to ensure we deliver exceptional service to our customers. If you are a skilled mechanic looking to advance your career by combining team leadership with hands-on problem-solving, we would be delighted to hear from you. What’s in It for You? Diverse Role: You will split your time between hands-on mechanical work and overseeing a small team of technicians. Career Growth: This position offers an opportunity to refine your leadership and technical skills under the guidance of an experienced Service Manager. Local Advantage: Utilize your familiarity with the Dunedin area to build strong customer relationships while addressing the unique challenges and opportunities it presents. Team Spirit: Join a close-knit team that values open communication and a supportive work culture. Competitive Package: We offer an hourly rate that reflects your expertise, along with the stability and benefits associated with a large, growth-oriented organization. What You'll Be Doing Leading & Overseeing: You will allocate tasks among your team of technicians, monitor productivity, and ensure high-quality work outcomes. Hands-On Repairs: Expect to spend up to 70% of your time performing diagnostics, services, and major overhauls on forklifts and other materials handling equipment. Compliance: You will maintain workshop cleanliness, manage administration tasks, and ensure adherence to all safety protocols, including hazard and incident reporting. Customer Interaction: Communicate effectively with clients to clarify job requirements, provide updates on repairs, and address any service concerns in a professional manner. Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to enhance workshop efficiency, promote best practices among the team, and mentor apprentices. What It Takes to Succeed Mechanical Trade Qualification: A qualification in Automotive or Diesel, such as the NZ Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering, is required. Technical Know-How: You should have experience in diagnostics, mechanical servicing, hydraulics, or electrics. A background in forklifts or materials handling is advantageous, but experience as a mechanic is also suitable. Leadership Experience: You should be comfortable leading a small team, resolving conflicts, and coordinating schedules. Previous experience mentoring apprentices is beneficial. Strong Communicator & Problem-Solver: The ability to interpret schematics, troubleshoot issues independently, and keep customers informed is essential. Local Knowledge & Flexibility: Familiarity with Dunedin is preferred, along with a willingness to learn about the region's specific demands. You should also be prepared to travel to customer sites as needed. If you are ready to take charge of a workshop, lead a team, and ensure that Dunedin's materials handling equipment remains in excellent condition, we encourage you to apply now by clicking the link.