Marine Engineering Manager

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KiwiRail is seeking a Marine Engineering Manager for Interislander in Wellington. This permanent role leads the marine engineering team to ensure safe, reliable and on-time performance, overseeing maintenance, inspections and compliance while guiding upgrades and transitions. You will manage technical opex and capex, drive continuous improvement, and champion standardized practices across ships with a strong focus on safety and ISM compliance. The ideal candidate has senior leadership experience in complex marine operations, solid engineering credentials, maritime sector background, and proven frontline safety leadership; STCW and Chief Engineer credentials are highly desirable. Benefits include salary, 4% KiwiSaver, 25 days leave, and staff perks. Applications close 9 August 2026; NZ work rights are required, shortlisting begins now.

Marine Engineering Manager

Position Description

• Be part of an exciting, evolving time at Interislander
• Pivotal role
• Permanent, Wellington based

He kōrero mō mātou | About us:

At KiwiRail, we connect New Zealanders sustainably, powering economic growth and ensuring vital freight and passenger services run smoothly. Our mission, "Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand," highlights our dedication to sustainability and community well-being. 

Our people make KiwiRail exceptional. By fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace, we empower everyone to contribute their best. If you’re passionate about innovation and safety, we’d love to welcome you aboard. 

He whakamārama mo te tūranga mahi | About the role:

The Marine Engineering Manager is responsible for fostering a high-performing, collaborative team culture that champions excellence in marine engineering operations. This role is pivotal in ensuring the safe, reliable, and commercially sound performance of Interislander vessels by leading with technical expertise, prioritising safety, and driving continuous improvement. Through strong leadership and a focus on both operational and commercial outcomes, the Marine Engineering Manager enables the team to deliver outstanding results for KiwiRail and its customers.

Key accountabilities include:

• Lead and manage all Marine and Workshop Engineering personnel, acting as the Head of Department for engineers, cadets, motormen, engine room wipers, electrical officers, and workshop staff.
• Ensure the fleet consistently delivers safe, reliable, and on-time performance that aligns with customer expectations.
• Oversee the delivery of maintenance, inspections, audits, and compliance for all vessels, maintaining high standards of technical and regulatory compliance.
• Responsible for technical opex and capex budget as directed by Fleet Operations Manager
• Investigate and deliver improvement outcomes through actions for technical incidents, events in fleet to drive continuous improvement in line with ISM code requirements
• Plan, lead and deliver upgrades and maintenance projects for fleet vessels as required
• Develop and deliver commercially prudent work packages and engineering programme management outcomes.
• Champion the adoption of standardised practices and continuous improvement across all ships and engineering teams.
• Lead and support the technical transition and commissioning of new vessels, including the Ferry Replacement Programme.

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What (skills) you will bring:

Knowledge and experience

• You have a proven track record in a senior leadership and management role overseeing complex operational marine engineering activities.
• You have a solid technical understanding of engineering and its application in operating ships.
• You have significant experience within the maritime industry.
• You have demonstrable success in implementing and sustaining behavioural-based safety leadership principles within frontline operational teams.
• You have experience in commissioning new vessels or other complex plant or equipment (desirable).

Ways of working / Work-related qualities

• You communicate effectively at all levels and across diverse teams.
• You make sound decisions and are politically aware, especially in unionised environments.
• You value diversity and help create an inclusive workplace.
• You are proactive, resilient, and able to lead through change.

Other Requirements

• You can pass regular drug and alcohol screenings.
• You hold a current and valid NZ driver’s licence.

Qualifications

You need:

• Relevant qualifications in Marine Engineering or equivalent marine engineering experience.
• Experience as a Chief Engineer and STCW Qualification (highly desirable)
• High voltage electrical systems experience (desirable)
• You may also have qualifications in Leadership, Management, and/or Business Studies or Commerce (desirable).

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:

• Supportive work environment and career opportunities
• Competitive salary plus 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution
• 25 annual leave days
• Great staff benefits, including access to Staff Welfare Trust holiday homes, discounted travel and healthcare insurance

Candidates must have current NZ work rights to be considered.  We will be shortlisting and interviewing as we advertise, so be in quick with your application!

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?

Rā aukati | Applications close: 9 August 2026