Workshop Manager & Mechanic

Position Summary:

The Workshop Manager & Mechanic is a hands-on role responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the auto workshop while actively participating in vehicle repairs and maintenance to all Kalano and outside authorised vehicles, machinery and equipment. This position requires strong technical skills, leadership abilities, and managerial expertise to ensure efficient workflow, high-quality workmanship, and exceptional customer service.

As the Workshop Manager & Mechanic you will have a wide variety of responsibilities and duties, including repairs and maintenance of Small Engines, Light Vehicles, Heavy Vehicles and Machinery. Experience in the aforementioned as well as tyre fitting, hydraulics and electrical is preferred.

This will involve building strong and influential relationships, adhering to compliance within programs and funding agreements as well as Kalano policies and procedures.

You will be responsible for the provision of a culturally appropriate service to all customers.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Expertise:

• Perform a wide range of repairs and maintenance tasks, including but not limited to diagnostics, engine repairs, brake inspections, suspension adjustments, and electrical system troubleshooting to a variety of vehicles, machinery and equipment, ensuring that all work meets industry standards and customer expectations.

• Utilise diagnostic equipment, hand tools, and specialized machinery to identify issues accurately and implement effective durable solutions.

• Stay updated on industry developments, new technologies, and best practices to enhance repair capabilities and maintain high standards of service quality.

Team Leadership:

• Lead and supervise a team of mechanics, providing hands-on guidance, training, and support to ensure they perform their duties effectively and efficiently.

• Ensure the team adheres to safety protocols, quality standards, and productivity targets.

• Conduct regular performance evaluations, provide feedback, and support the professional development of workshop staff.

• Assign tasks, prioritize work orders, and manage workload distribution to optimize productivity and meet customer demand.

• Foster a collaborative and positive work environment, promoting teamwork, professionalism, and continuous learning among workshop staff.

• Mentor and teach apprentices/trainees, school students and/or CDP Participants who are on work experience program and keen to join the automotive industry

Customer Interaction:

• Interact with customers to understand their vehicle concerns, explain repair recommendations, and provide accurate cost estimates in a clear and friendly manner.

• Address customer inquiries, feedback, and complaints promptly, demonstrating empathy, professionalism and a commitment to resolving issues to their satisfaction.

• Build and maintain strong customer relationships through open communication, transparency, and personalized service to foster trust and loyalty.

Workshop Operations:

• Oversee all aspects of workshop operations, including inventory management, equipment maintenance, and facility cleanliness, to ensure a safe, organized, and efficient work environment.

• Conduct regular inspections of tools, equipment, and facilities to identify maintenance needs, safety hazards, and areas for improvement, taking proactive measures to address them promptly.

• Implement and enforce safety protocols, compliance standards, and regulatory requirements to minimize risks and ensure a safe working environment for all staff members.

• Continuously evaluate and improve operational processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize resource utilization.

Administrative Duties:

• Manage administrative tasks such as job cards, work order documentation, parts ordering, invoicing, and record keeping to ensure accurate tracking of repair activities, expenses, and customer transactions.

• Monitor financial performance metrics, analyze workshop profitability, and identify opportunities for cost savings, negotiate vendor contracts, and manage procurement of parts and supplies within budgetary constraints and revenue growth through efficient resource utilization and effective pricing strategies.

• Collaborate with senior management to develop business strategies, set performance goals, and implement initiatives to enhance workshop efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction.

• Manage the workshop budget, including expenses, revenue targets, and profitability goals.

• Identify cost-saving opportunities, negotiate vendor contracts, and manage procurement of parts and supplies within budgetary constraints.

• Analyze financial performance metrics, such as revenue, expenses, and profit margins, to assess workshop performance and make data-driven decisions.

• Complete all managerial administrative tasks in a timely manner, by due dates. This includes but not limited to managers reports

• Undertake other duties as required by management

Salary and Conditions:

Salary Range: $93,000 - $114,000 per annum (pro-rata) - depending on experience and qualifications

Employment Type: Full Time

Entitlements/Benefits:

• 6 Weeks Annual Leave
• 2 Weeks Sick Leave
• 2 Weeks Ancillary Leave
• 1 RDO per Month
• Vehicle for work & personal use within 100km of Katherine
• Mobile phone for work & personal use
• Laptop for work & personal use

Location: Kalano’s Auto Workshop - Lot 508 McKeddie Road, Katherine, NT.

Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week – 7.5 hours per day [Monday to Friday | 08:00am – 4:30pm]

The successful applicant should possess the following:

• Trade qualified Mechanic – Minimum Cert III in Automotive Mechanical or equivalent

• MVR Authorised Inspector, or willing to obtain

• Proven experience as an auto mechanic, with in-depth knowledge of automotive systems, diagnostics, and repair techniques.

• Prior supervisory or managerial experience in an automotive workshop or similar setting.

• Administration Skills - Competent use of computer software packages such as word, excel, email and internet, and experience with electronic management systems

• Knowledge of industry regulations, safety standards, and best practices related to automotive service and repair.

• Working knowledge of WHS regulations and practices

• Working knowledge of all Kalano Policies and Procedures

• Working knowledge of a variety of equipment, machines and engines

• Effective problem solving and conflict management skills

• Cross cultural awareness and effective communication skills

• Ability to positively and collaboratively work in and lead a team

• Valid NT Drivers Licence, Valid NT Ochre Card and Current National Police Check

• Willingness to undertake further training as required

Indigenous and/or Torres Strait Islander persons encouraged to apply

All applications are to include an up-to-date Resume and a Cover Letter addressing your suitability for the role and apply via our Kalano’s Careers page before the closing date to be accepted

Position Descriptions can be obtained from Human Resources.

Phone 08 897225***| Email **@kalano.org.au

Applications Close: Thursday 15th February 2024