Operations Manager
BH-326150
Posted: 23/02/2026
- 90,000
- New Zealand Taranaki Hawera
- Permanent
-
Manufacturing
Operations Manager
Hawera, South Taranaki
This is a well-established New Zealand-owned company supplying and installing high-quality matting solutions for dairy farms across the country. Based in Hāwera, they work closely with farmers and installation teams to deliver practical, durable solutions that improve animal welfare and farm efficiency.
Due to successful growth (in this newly established role), we are seeking a highly motivated and practical Operations Manager to help lead the day-to-day operations while remaining actively involved in on-site installation work. We’re looking for a hands-on person who will take responsibility for day-to-day operations while actively working alongside the team. You’ll oversee dispatch and logistics, operate workshop machinery, coordinate installation teams, and liaise directly with customers — all while being prepared to roll up your sleeves and get the job done.
This is a hands-on leadership role (initially managing a small team of contractors but plans moving forward to grow further staff under this person) and would be suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys working alongside their team, and is driven to improve systems, processes, and profitability.
You will have a mechanical aptitude and having a Forklift Licence would be an advantage or the willingness to get one. Coming from the rural sector would also be an advantage or a background in dealing professionally within the dairy industry or rural clients would be ideal. You would need to be prepared to spend a night away on average per week on installation projects.
Key Responsibilities:
Operational Leadership:
Skills & Experience:
Personal Attributes:
You will be a practical and solutions-oriented person who is highly organised with strong attention to detail and be comfortable working both in the field and in an administrative capacity. You will be resilient, adaptable, and proactive and show a keen commitment to continuous improvement.
What We Offer:
Applicants must have the current legal right to work and live in New Zealand.
Please apply to this advert is strict confidence or contact Bruce at NES Fircroft on 021 247 7311 for further information.
With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.
Hawera, South Taranaki
This is a well-established New Zealand-owned company supplying and installing high-quality matting solutions for dairy farms across the country. Based in Hāwera, they work closely with farmers and installation teams to deliver practical, durable solutions that improve animal welfare and farm efficiency.
Due to successful growth (in this newly established role), we are seeking a highly motivated and practical Operations Manager to help lead the day-to-day operations while remaining actively involved in on-site installation work. We’re looking for a hands-on person who will take responsibility for day-to-day operations while actively working alongside the team. You’ll oversee dispatch and logistics, operate workshop machinery, coordinate installation teams, and liaise directly with customers — all while being prepared to roll up your sleeves and get the job done.
This is a hands-on leadership role (initially managing a small team of contractors but plans moving forward to grow further staff under this person) and would be suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys working alongside their team, and is driven to improve systems, processes, and profitability.
You will have a mechanical aptitude and having a Forklift Licence would be an advantage or the willingness to get one. Coming from the rural sector would also be an advantage or a background in dealing professionally within the dairy industry or rural clients would be ideal. You would need to be prepared to spend a night away on average per week on installation projects.
Key Responsibilities:
Operational Leadership:
- Carrying out hands on specialised manufacturing and installation of products while coordinating and scheduling of staff, contractors, and resources whilst adhering to HSE requirements and promoting this with the team
- Oversee daily operational activities to ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget
- Monitor workflow efficiency and implement improvements to systems and processes
- Ensure compliance with all relevant New Zealand health and safety regulations
- Actively participate in installation work as required
- Provide technical guidance and support to team members on-site
- Troubleshoot installation challenges and ensure high-quality workmanship
- Lead by example in maintaining productivity and safety standards
- Lead, supervise, and motivate operational contractors and staff
- Foster a positive, accountable, and solutions-focused team culture
- Review operational systems and identify opportunities for efficiency gains
- Develop and implement streamlined processes to reduce waste and increase output
- Monitor budgets, margins, and job costing to improve profitability
Skills & Experience:
- Proven experience in an Operations Manager, Site Manager, or be ready to step upwards into a leadership role
- Having a solid hands-on practical mechanical knowledge and background
- Demonstrated ability to manage teams and coordinate multiple projects
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Excellent communication and leadership capabilities
- Full, clean New Zealand driver’s licence
Personal Attributes:
You will be a practical and solutions-oriented person who is highly organised with strong attention to detail and be comfortable working both in the field and in an administrative capacity. You will be resilient, adaptable, and proactive and show a keen commitment to continuous improvement.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary package (commensurate with experience)
- Company vehicle and tools of trade
- Supportive team environment
- Opportunity to shape operational systems and drive meaningful business improvement
- Ongoing professional development opportunities
Applicants must have the current legal right to work and live in New Zealand.
Please apply to this advert is strict confidence or contact Bruce at NES Fircroft on 021 247 7311 for further information.
With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.