Klondu has supported the Illawarra's heavy industrial sector for decades, delivering complex engineering work to steel, mining, manufacturing, infrastructure and energy customers. Based at Port Kembla, the business operates large-scale machining and fabrication workshops with strong capability in advanced welding, heavy machining, fabrication and refurbishment of critical plant and equipment.
This role is available following the planned retirement of a senior leader with more than 20 years' service. The incoming Production Manager will bring an external perspective—building on existing strengths while lifting standards around delivery, accountability and performance.
We are seeking a proven Production or Operations Manager to take ownership of day-to-day operations, leading 70+ tradespeople across fabrication, machining, blasting, painting, and fitting & assembly. This is a senior, hands-on leadership role requiring strong floor presence and sound judgement.
THE ROLE
Reporting to the General Manager, you will own production performance across the workshops, leading supervisors and trades to deliver work safely, efficiently and on schedule.
Key responsibilities include:
* Leading and developing supervisors, planners/schedulers and production teams
* Managing production planning, scheduling and resourcing to meet delivery commitments
* Driving continuous improvement across safety, productivity, quality and delivery
* Monitoring and reporting on production performance, resources and plant
YOU
You are a proven operations leader with experience in heavy engineering, fabrication and machining environments, comfortable owning delivery in demanding industrial settings.
Key attributes include:
* Senior production or operations leadership experience in heavy engineering or machining
* Engineering trade background (Boilermaker, Welder, Fitter or Machinist)
* Strong WHS leadership mindset and working knowledge of quality standards
* Experience leading teams with the support of ERP/MRP manufacturing systems
OPPORTUNITY
This is an opportunity to take ownership of a substantial heavy engineering operation, leading an experienced production team within a well-equipped industrial facility.
A competitive salary package is offered, along with onboarding support and scope for long-term career progression.
Interested? candidates are encouraged to apply with a CV and brief cover letter. Applications are being assessed now.
Want to know more? For a confidential discussion call Jonathan Pelham in our Wollongong office on
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