KiwiRail
Production Manager
- Posted Today
- On Site
- Full Time
Location
Christchurch
Job Description
- Location, Christchurch
- Leadership role with decision making authority
- Get on track with KiwiRail – help lead our infrastructure team and drive the future of rail in Aotearoa!
He kōrero mō mātou | About us:
At KiwiRail, we’re proud to play a key role in New Zealand’s sustainable future. With over 150 years of connecting communities, delivering freight, and supporting tourism through our beautiful landscapes, KiwiRail is a cornerstone of Aotearoa’s transport system. Our purpose - Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mo Aotearoa (Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand) - drives us to provide efficient, safe, and environmentally-friendly transport solutions that benefit everyone across the country. Our culture is grounded in safety, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence, with over 4500 people working together to deliver essential services.
He whakamārama mo te tūranga mahi | About the role:
As a Production Manager for our Upper South Island region, you’ll lead a talented team, ensuring the safe, effective, and efficient delivery of track maintenance and renewals. Reporting to the Regional Infrastructure Manager, you’ll guide Field Production Managers and their teams, managing the workbank and maintaining high-quality standards in infrastructure operations.
This is a leadership role that involves planning, collaborating with key internal and external stakeholders, and driving a culture of safety and continuous improvement. Your focus will be on both day-to-day operations and long-term sustainability, ensuring that the rail network remains safe, reliable, and compliant.
Key responsibilities include:
Leading the charge for safety across all operations, ensuring alignment with our Toitū Te Mauri safety leadership principles.
Coaching, mentoring, and developing your team for long-term success.
Managing work scheduling, prioritising proactive maintenance over reactive work.
Ensuring work is delivered on time, within budget, and to required quality standards.
Building strong relationships with contractors, stakeholders, and community groups.
Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What (skills) you will bring:
To be successful in this role, we are looking for someone with:
- Experience: At least 5 years in operational management or leadership, ideally within rail, transport, or logistics.
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead large, diverse teams and drive performance through coaching and mentoring.
- Commercial Acumen: Strong understanding of budgets, financials, and the commercial side of infrastructure management.
- Problem-Solving: Excellent decision-making skills, particularly in complex operational environments.
- Communication: Strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement abilities to support operational outcomes.
- Qualifications: A relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent job-related experience is preferred.
Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:
At KiwiRail, we offer much more than just a job. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- A competitive salary and a range of benefits to support your wellbeing and lifestyle.
- Access to ongoing training and career development opportunities to help you grow.
- The chance to make a tangible impact on New Zealand’s rail network, contributing to its sustainability and efficiency.
- A supportive team environment where you’ll be encouraged to thrive and innovate.
- The opportunity to lead a high-performing team and shape the future of rail infrastructure in Aotearoa.
Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?
If you’re a driven leader with a passion for safety, efficiency, and teamwork, we want to hear from you. Join us in delivering a better, safer rail network for New Zealand.
Apply now and help us keep Aotearoa connected, sustainable, and moving forward.
Rā aukati | Application Close: 19 March 2025 unless filled sooner
Hard Skills Required
- Track Maintenance
- Machinery Operation
- Safety Protocols
Soft Skills Required
- Time Management
- Communication
- Coordination
- Attention to Detail
Benefits and Perks
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🤱Extended Parental Leave
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🏘Work from Home
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🧕Inclusive Workspace
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❤Care and AppreciationEAP, Employee Assistance Programme, Study Grants, Travel Privileges on Great Journeys of New Zealand and InterIslander.
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🧠Mental Health Workshops
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💚Counselling Services
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📈Professional Development
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🛂Visa Sponsorship
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🎉Employee Discounts and RewardsThe NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust- The Trust offers reimbursement of medical expenses for members and their families, access to affordable holiday homes, and group discounts on additional insurances.
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🎖Long Service Rewards
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📣Referral Bonuses
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💻Company Supplied Technology
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⛑Uniform Provided
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⏰Flexible Work
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Bereavement Leave
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Sick Leave
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Extended Annual Leave
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Wellbeing Support
Job Schedule
- Monday to Friday
- Shift Work