Company :
Hastings Deering (Australia) Ltd
Kickstart your career or take the next step with Hastings Deering – where our people build something BIGGER.
We're seeking an experienced Leading Hand to join our Machine Workshop team in Cairns QLD. This is a hands‑on leadership role suited to a trade‑qualified professional with strong machining expertise who enjoys leading from the front. You'll coordinate day‑to‑day workshop activities while remaining actively involved on the tools, providing technical leadership, supporting efficient workflows, and ensuring all work is completed safely, on time, and to Hastings Deering standards. This is a permanent, Monday to Thursday position.
What you'll be doing
As a Leading Hand at Hastings Deering, you will:
* Lead the workshop team – supervise and guide tradespeople within the machine workshop to ensure daily activities run smoothly and effectively.
* Plan and prioritise work – allocate, sequence and monitor jobs to meet production targets and operational requirements.
* Provide hands‑on leadership – offer technical guidance, coaching and mentoring to support skill development and strong performance.
* Champion safety and quality – ensure all work complies with safety, quality and regulatory standards at all times.
* Keep workflows moving – support job planning, coordinate workflow and resolve issues to minimise delays and rework.
* Maintain a high‑standard workspace – uphold excellent housekeeping practices to drive efficiency and a safe working environment.
* Be the communication link – act as the key point of contact between the workshop team and supervision to ensure alignment and clarity.
Who are we and why work with us?
Hastings Deering is proud to be one of the top 5 Caterpillar dealerships globally. We sell, rent, and offer support and parts distribution services for Cat products across a range of industries, including resources, general construction, civil transport and commercial construction, power systems, government, primary industries and marine.
We have more than 3,500 employees across 23 business service centres throughout Queensland, Northern Territory, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and New Caledonia, with our headquarters based in Brisbane, Australia.
When you join our team at Hastings Deering, you'll benefit from:
* Big Pay, Bigger Growth - Competitive hourly rates with competency-based pay rises PLUS regular scheduled increases under our current Enterprise Agreement.
* Body, Mind & Wallet Support - Free health checks, Employee Assistance Program, income protection insurance, and discounts at major retailers.
* Career Paths That Work for You - Grow into leadership, technical specialist, or support service roles. At Hastings Deering, we align with YOUR goals.
* Get more time back in your life - Our work schedules are made to fit your life, giving you the flexibility to take care of what matters most outside of work.
* Security you can count on - Enjoy the stability of a long-term career with Hastings Deering, backed by global strength.
* Cutting Edge Tech - Get hands-on experience with the latest CAT technology as we shape the future of mining and heavy equipment solutions.
* Leading Hand Allowance – paid in accordance with the Hastings Deering Enterprise Agreement, recognising the additional leadership, coordination and supervisory responsibilities of the role.
What you'll need:
A successful teammate will have experience in:
* Trade-qualified professional – hold an Australian‑recognised trade qualification as a Fitter Machinist, Fitter Turner or Engine Reconditioning Technician.
* Proven leadership capability – demonstrate experience leading teams within a workshop or machining environment.
* Strong technical expertise – apply in‑depth knowledge of machining and engine reconditioning processes.
* People-focused leader – lead, mentor and motivate team members to achieve high performance.
* Safety and quality driven – maintain a strong commitment to safety, quality and continuous improvement.
* Clear communicator – use strong communication and organisational skills to support efficient operations.
* Heavy equipment experience – bring experience working with Caterpillar equipment or similar heavy machinery.
* High-volume environment exposure – operate effectively in high‑volume or heavy industrial workshop settings.
Interested? Here's What's Next:
If you're interested in growing your career with a large OEM, we'd love to hear from you
Apply Now – click the button below.
Enquiries:
Contact: Taylor Collett – Talent Acquisition Partner
Hastings Deering follows a Pre-Employment Process for all successful applicants, which includes two employment references, a National Police Check and a medical assessment. These checks are essential to your application, and your Talent Acquisition Partner will support you through the process.