Job Title: Operations Manager - Victoria
**Industry:** Non-destructive Testing and Inspection
**Country:** Australia
**Role Type:** Full-Time
**Experience Level:** Manager
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Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Operations Manager to lead and optimize our operations in Victoria. The successful candidate serve as the primary client liaison and technical team leader, coordinating field operations, managing certified technicians, and overseeing equipment deployment while upholding stringent quality, safety, and environmental standards. The role integrates commercial accountability with people leadership, driving both day-to-day execution and strategic growth opportunities. .
Key Responsibilities:
* Serve as the dedicated point of contact for assigned clients across energy, mining, and defence sectors, overseeing the end-to-end execution of NDT and integrity inspection work scopes.
* Direct the sourcing, tracking, and maintenance of all NDT equipment and PPE, maintaining accurate registers and calibration records.
* Assist the Regional Manager in achieving financial targets for the account by identifying and quoting work packages, ensuring all billable hours are captured, and monitoring project margins.
* Responsible for accurate WIP reporting and timely invoicing per business processes, with accountability for delivering gross profit margins aligned with business unit budgets
* Identify and action quotes for new work scopes, utilising commercial acumen in contract negotiation and business development to secure profitable inspection contracts.
* Manage team performance, aligning individual KPIs to the Business Unit strategy, conducting performance reviews in agreed timeframes.
* Contribute to workforce planning by performing effective and compliant recruitment of direct reports, ensuring roles are well designed and recruits are fit for role.
* Develop effective, proactive relationships with Regional Managers, QHSE teams, and field technicians, ensuring operational offerings meet and exceed internal stakeholder needs.
* Ensure internal customer offerings meet and/or exceed customer needs and manage expectations.
* Build and sustain professional relationships with key client contacts across Energy, Oil and Gas, Mining, Defence, and Infrastructure sectors, demonstrating perceptiveness and passion for their operational challenges.
* Utilise project management tools to plan and track inspection jobs, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently and milestones are met.
* Deliver comprehensive reporting to Regional Managers on job progress, financial performance, and QHSE metrics, enabling proactive management of the relevant portfolio.
* Hold technicians accountable for operating in accordance with NDE policies and client site rules, intervening immediately when unsafe practices are observed.
* Utilise project management tools to plan and track inspection jobs, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently and milestones are met.
* Comply with all NDE WHS&E policies, procedures, and practices, with reference to responsibilities articulated in the NDE Safety Policy
Competencies and Proficiencies:
* Leadership & Team Development: Exceptional interpersonal and motivational skills to lead cross-functional teams of NDT technicians, fostering a values-driven culture that prioritises safety, quality, and client satisfaction in high-pressure field environments.
* Communication & Negotiation: High-level verbal and written communication abilities to engage effectively with clients, suppliers, and internal stakeholders. Skilled in contract negotiation, conflict resolution, and delivering constructive performance feedback with attention to detail.
* Project & Operations Management: Proficiency in project management tools and software to coordinate multi-site inspection campaigns, track WIP, and manage client relationships efficiently.
* Organisational & Prioritisation Skills: Excellent capability to manage competing priorities across multiple client sites, ensuring resource allocation, equipment availability, and reporting deadlines are met without compromising safety or quality standards.
Knowledge and Experience:
* Industry-Specific Expertise: Demonstrated success (5+ years) in key account or project management within the NDT, industrial solutions, or technical services sectors.
* Technical & Standards Knowledge: At least two ISO certified NDT methods (e.g., UT, RT) with general understanding of ISO standards as they apply to inspection operations and safety management.
* Commercial Acumen: Proven experience in estimating, quoting, and contract negotiation within industrial services; track record of business development and managing customer/supplier relationships to achieve profitable growth and operational efficiency
* Strong understanding of financial management and budgeting processes.
* Knowledge of industry regulations and compliance standards.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and project management software (e.g., MS Project, Asana, or Trello).
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We Offer
* Competitive hourly rate, including penalties and allowances where applicable.
* Secure, long-term employment in a growing national company.
* Flexible, supportive culture that values work-life balance.
* Career development opportunities across multiple industries.
* Approachable, experienced leadership team.
* Social events, team lunches, and strong camaraderie.
* Employee Assistance Program (EAP) access.
* Gym and Private Health Insurance discounts.
* Novated vehicle lease options.
* Free flu vaccinations and ongoing wellbeing initiatives.
Our Commitment
As a Circle Back Initiative Employer, we commit to responding to every applicant.
At NDE Solutions, we believe diversity and inclusion bring out the best in our people and deliver better outcomes for our clients.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to join our inclusive, professional, and motivated team.
No matter where you're based, we want to hear from you – opportunities exist across the country for the right people.