Job Role: Diesel Mechanic/Crane Technician
Job Type: Permanent / Full Time
Location: Canterbury
Category: Transport| Aviation | Automotive
Sub-Category: Diesel Mechanic
Description:
Summary
Join a specialist Christchurch engineering and service team working on Palfinger and Hiab knuckle‑boom cranes, hook lifts and related material‑handling gear. Enjoy hands‑on technical work, ongoing training, a steady pipeline of work and clear career progression within a respected regional transport‑equipment business.
About the role
This is a hands‑on technical role reporting to the Service Manager / Foreman, responsible for installation, maintenance, repair and annual certification of hydraulic knuckle‑boom cranes and associated equipment. You’ll fit units to vehicles, commission systems, carry out ECU and remote‑control diagnostics, and provide practical advice to engineers and customers. Accurate job records, parts and labour booking, and maintaining a tidy, safe workshop are expected.
What’s in it for you?
- Regular certification work and varied projects across installation, servicing and complex repairs.
- Exposure to hydraulics, electrical/electronic systems, ECU troubleshooting and remote‑control repairs.
- A supportive workshop culture with on‑the‑job development and stable, local workload.
- Competitive pay, health insurance options and opportunities for career growth.
Key responsibilities
- Service, inspect, overhaul and repair knuckle‑boom cranes, hook lifts and material‑handling equipment.
- Diagnose hydraulic, electrical and electronic faults, including ECU and radio‑remote systems.
- Fit and commission crane units to vehicles, assemble components and advise on fabrication and fitting methods.
- Complete annual certifications and ensure all work complies with safety and company procedures.
- Keep accurate daily job records, manage parts usage and support workshop stock control.
About you
- Trade certificate and at least 5 years’ continuous experience as a Diesel Motor Mechanic or in hydraulic/equipment diagnostics.
- Strong hydraulics, electrical/electronic and mechanical capability relating to cranes, EWPs, side lifters or material handling gear.
- Experience with ECU diagnostics and radio/remote systems; familiarity with workshop systems (LMB/AML/LMI or similar) is an advantage.
- High standard of workmanship, excellent written and verbal communication in English, and a customer‑service mindset.
- Full NZ driver licence and legal right to work in New Zealand.
Health, safety and culture
You will be expected to demonstrate a commitment to Health and Safety at Work, maintain a tidy and safe work area, and help foster a positive workplace culture focused on quality, continuous improvement and excellent service.
Apply now
If you’re an experienced technician who takes pride in problem‑solving and delivering high‑quality outcomes, send your CV and brief cover letter with your details. Applicants must have full working rights in New Zealand and be able to pass pre‑employment checks.
Steve Deans
VIPeople Senior Recruiter | Building, Civil & Trades Sectors
