Job Role: Workshop Lead
Job Type: Permanent / Full Time
Location: Canterbury
Category: Manufacturing
Sub-Category: Management / Supervisor
Description:
Workshop Lead – Manufacturing (Leaf Springs)
- Competitive Rate + $35 – $38 + Every second Friday off
- Lead a small, skilled team in a specialised manufacturing environment
- Progression Opportunities + Small Team + On site Parking
Job summary
Step into a senior, hands-on leadership role within a specialised manufacturing environment.
This position will see you lead a small workshop team, support production planning, and remain actively involved on the tools, contributing to the full manufacturing process of heavy-duty leaf springs.
If you enjoy working with steel, heat, and precision and want to take ownership of a workshop this is a unique opportunity.
About the company
This well-established Christchurch manufacturer specialises in the design, manufacture, and repair of heavy-duty suspension components, servicing a wide range of industries including transport, agriculture, and heavy vehicles.
With decades of industry experience, they are known for their quality workmanship, durability, and custom-built solutions. Operating with a small, highly skilled team, the business prides itself on reliability, strong client relationships, and delivering products built to last.
About the role
You will lead the day-to-day operations of a small workshop team of 4-5 staff, ensuring production runs efficiently while maintaining high standards.
This is a hands-on leadership role, where you will balance team supervision, workflow coordination, and active involvement in manufacturing.
Duties
- Lead and supervise a small team within the workshop
- Assist with production planning and daily workflow
- Heat steel using furnaces to achieve required temperatures
- Form, press, and shape steel into leaf spring components
- Assemble, align, and finish spring packs to specification
- Carry out quality checks to ensure durability and compliance
- Maintain a safe and efficient workshop environment
Skills and experience
- Strong mechanical mindset and understanding of manufacturing processes
- Proven experience in a team leadership or supervisory role
- Hands-on approach with the ability to lead from the front
- Experience in heavy fabrication, forging, or similar industries
- Interest or background in blacksmithing, knife making, or metalwork highly advantageous
- Comfortable working with furnaces, heated materials, and forming processes
- Strong problem-solving and organisational skills
Culture
Join a tight-knit, down-to-earth team where everyone contributes and takes pride in their work.
This is a practical, hands-on environment with a strong focus on quality, teamwork, and getting the job done right. You’ll work closely with the owner and have real input into how the workshop operates.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly rate
- Every second Friday off
- Stable, long-term opportunity
- Work closely with an experienced owner
- Opportunity to lead and make a genuine impact
How to Apply
Apply online with your CV and Cover letter. For more information, contact Zangelique Visser at VIPeople
Zangelique Visser | Manufacturing | Warehouse & Logistics
