Overview
Workshop Technician Jobs in Canterbury, New Zealand at Thelning Design Innovation
Title: Workshop Technician
Company: Thelning Design Innovation
Location: Canterbury, New Zealand
Company Description Thelning Design Innovation (TDI) is a specialist mechanical engineering firm established in 2016 to provide New Zealand customers with innovative design and effective engineering solutions. Based on a small, highly skilled team, TDI combines diverse mechanical engineering experience to deliver practical, inventive outcomes. The company’s work spans machine design for light and heavy industry, agriculture, marine, and production equipment, as well as automation and process engineering. TDI also focuses on machine tool design, power transmission systems, and product design in materials such as sheet metal, plastics, composites, and custom automotive applications. The team is committed to high technical standards, strong value, and ongoing support for clients.
Role Description The Workshop Technician is a full-time, on-site role based in Canterbury, New Zealand. This role involves supporting mechanical engineering projects through the safe and efficient use of workshop equipment and tools, including machining, fabrication, assembly, and testing of components and prototypes. The Workshop Technician will interpret engineering drawings and specifications, assist with the construction and modification of machinery and mechanical systems, and contribute to the assembly of production equipment and custom products. Daily responsibilities include maintaining workshop organization, performing routine equipment checks, monitoring stock levels of materials and consumables, and adhering to all health and safety procedures. The role also requires close collaboration with engineers and other team members to troubleshoot issues, refine designs, and ensure that high-quality technical standards are consistently met.
Qualifications
- Relevant trade qualification or apprenticeship in mechanical engineering, fitting and turning, machining, or a closely related field.
- Hands-on experience with workshop machinery and tools, such as lathes, mills, drills, welding equipment, and hand tools, with strong focus on safe operation.
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, schematics, and technical specifications, and translate them into practical workshop tasks.
- Exposure to machine design, automation, or production equipment assembly, ideally within industrial, agricultural, marine, or manufacturing environments.
- Understanding of basic mechanical principles, materials, tolerances, and fastening methods.
- Strong attention to detail, quality-focused workmanship, and accurate measurement and inspection skills.
- Effective communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a small team and coordinate tasks with engineers and project leads.
- Proactive approach to health and safety, including hazard awareness, risk mitigation, and adherence to workshop procedures and regulations.
- Ability to manage time, prioritize tasks, and handle multiple projects in a fast-paced workshop environment.
- Experience in New Zealand manufacturing or engineering sectors and familiarity with local standards and practices are advantageous.