Maintenance Manager – Nursery Operations
Southern Plants is growing our team and welcomes a professional who values lean manufacturing, embraces continuous improvement of our systems and processes, and shares our commitment to quality work. We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Maintenance Manager to oversee both proactive and reactive maintenance and the reliability of all mechanical, electrical, and operational equipment across our nursery site. In this role, you'll be valued as a leader and key contributor, fully supported by a collaborative, engaged, and hands-on team. You'll play a vital part in ensuring safe, efficient, and continuous production by leading preventative maintenance, responding to breakdowns, coordinating contractors, and driving improvements.
This role is ideal for a proactive leader who enjoys problem solving, developing others, and working in a dynamic outdoor environment where your expertise is recognised, and your success is backed every step of the way. Helping contribute to our expansion into mechanical and technological development through project management skills.
Why Join Us?
We value our people and are committed to creating a supportive and rewarding workplace. As part of our team, you will enjoy:
GENUINE WORK-LIFE-BALANCE: so you can enjoy Life and everything the Mornington Peninsula has to offer
A competitive salary based on your experience
Supportive leadership dedicated to your success
Our Team Culture and Values: Honesty, Trust, Respect, Empathy, Integrity and Commitment.
Extra paid leave, including your Birthday and Christmas Party Days
Regular company lunches and morning teas. Years of Service Recognition Program
Health and wellbeing initiatives, including access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and free flu vaccinations
Generous staff discounts on products
Key Responsibilities
Equipment Maintenance & Reliability
Develop and manage a preventative maintenance schedule for all equipment and facilities
Diagnose and repair mechanical and electrical faults to minimise downtime
Coordinate external contractors for specialised work
Maintain accurate service logs, maintenance records, and spare parts inventory
Ensure compliance with manufacturer and regulatory standards
Machinery & Infrastructure Management
Maintain assembly lines with conveyors and automation equipment and irrigation systems
Manage machinery upgrades, modifications, and new installations
Ensure maintenance tools, vehicles, and equipment meet safety and operational standards
Monitor equipment usage and implement efficiency improvements
Support site development projects as together we expand capacity and innovate
Safety & Compliance
Act as a Safety Representative and Emergency Response Captain
Conduct equipment safety inspections and assist with risk assessments
Participate in safety meetings and incident investigations
Collaborate to support the implementation of safety training and promote safe work practices
Leadership & Communication
Lead, train, and support a small maintenance team
Allocate tasks and manage team performance utilising Safety Champion program.
Communicate with management and production teams to prioritise tasks and projects
Assist in reporting on maintenance performance, costs, and KPIs
Key Relationships
Internal:
Owners, Managers, Maintenance Team, Production Supervisors and Nursery Staff
External:
Contractors, Equipment Suppliers, Regulatory Inspectors
Qualifications, Skills & Experience
Proven experience in machinery maintenance and troubleshooting
Strong technical knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, hydraulics, and pneumatics
Experience managing preventative maintenance programs
Solid understanding of WHS regulations and risk management
Excellent problem solving and diagnostic abilities
Strong organisational and communication skills
Trade qualification in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Maintenance or other relevant trade
Experience in nursery, horticultural, or agricultural operations
Knowledge of automation (e.g., potting lines, conveyors)
Supervisory experience
Electrical or restricted electrical licence
EWP and/or forklift licence
Key Performance Indicators
Equipment uptime and reliability
Preventative maintenance completion rate
Maintenance cost control and efficiency
Hands on, site-based role
Outdoor work with exposure to variable weather conditions; PPE required
Regular interaction with production and safety teams
How to Apply
If you're a skilled maintenance professional who values teamwork, safety, and continual improvement and you're looking for a role that offers both a challenge and balance of varied tasks, we'd love to hear from you.
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