Leading Hand - Fitter Turner / Machinist

Robert Page Marine Services LTD is no ordinary workplace. We’re an established, fast growing marine engineering company located right in the heart of the Tauranga Marine Precinct, next door to Vessel Works and just steps away from the 350-tonne travel lift.

We work on everything from small launches/ large ships and commercial fishing boats to high-end superyachts. If it floats, we’re into it. Our brand-new, purpose-built workshop is packed with the tools, tech, and the team to get the job done right. We’re now looking for talented people to join our growing team.

We’re on the hunt for a qualified leading hand - Fitter Turner / Machinist to join our experienced and friendly crew. If you love precision work, enjoy working on a variety of vessels, and take pride in your work, this is the role for you.

The Role: As a Leading Hand Fitter Turner / Machinist at RPMS, you’ll play a key role in driving both productivity and quality within the workshop. Working closely with the Workshop Foreman, you’ll help ensure projects run smoothly, safely, and to the highest standards. This is a hands-on position where you’ll lead by example—supporting the team while actively involved in the machining, fitting, and assembly of a wide range of machinery and components. You’ll be responsible for working to precise specifications, maintaining efficiency, and upholding strong safety practices. We’re looking for someone with solid mechanical know-how, strong technical skills, and a keen eye for detail—someone who takes pride in their work and enjoys being part of a high-performing team.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, supervise, and coordinate a team to ensure work is completed safely, on time, and to a high standard.
• Allocate tasks and delegate responsibilities based on individual skills and experience.
• Mentor, train, and support apprentices and team members to develop capability and performance.
• Monitor productivity and workmanship, providing constructive feedback and addressing performance issues.
• Resolve team challenges and maintain a positive, collaborative work environment.
• Act as the key liaison between the workshop team and Foreman or Managing Director. Technical & Machining Duties
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications accurately.
• Manufacture, repair, and fit components including propeller shafts, couplings, and bearings.
• Perform precision machining operations including turning, threading, boring, and drilling.
• Operate workshop machinery such as lathes, CNC and manual milling machines, drills, and saws.
• Work with a variety of materials including mild steel, stainless steel, bronze, aluminium, and composites.
• Ensure all work meets tight tolerances (within 0.01 mm) and quality standards.

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Maintain high standards of workmanship, accuracy, and attention to detail.
• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations and safe work practices.
• Enforce correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain tools, equipment, and a clean, organised, and safe workspace. Site Work & Collaboration
• Carry out work across multiple environments including workshops, ports, hardstands, and onboard vessels.
• Collaborate with the wider team to troubleshoot issues and meet project deadlines.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders regarding progress, challenges, and solutions. Development & Continuous Improvement
• Contribute to continuous improvement of processes and workshop efficiency.
• Support a culture of learning, with opportunities to upskill and grow within the company.
• Participate in training initiatives, with PPE and safety training provided.

Skills and Experience required:

• Trade qualification – level 4 in fitting & turning / General engineering.
• Experience – Minimum 3 years in a similar role & flexible to work extended hours.
• Technical skills – Strong machining and mechanical skills.
• Ability to read engineering drawings.
• Physical fitness – able to lift, stand, kneel and work in varied environments.
• Safety first – Understanding of workplace safety practices.
• Valid class 1 Full driver licence – must be able to drive company vehicles.

Additional requirements:

• Must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
• Must pass a pre-employment medical and drug / alcohol test.
• Clean criminal record required.

Sound Like You? If you're an experienced leading hand - Fitter Turner / Machinist who loves variety, thrives on precision, and wants to be part of a professional marine team, we want to hear from you!

Apply now with your CV and a short cover letter.