Title:  Container Terminal Operations Manager

Container Terminal Manager Operations

• Permanent full-time opportunity
• Based at our Container Terminal in Onehunga, Auckland

Position Description

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the Role

We're looking for an experienced and people-focused operational leader to oversee the day-to-day performance of our Southdown Container Terminal.

Leading a team of approximately 40+ staff, you'll play a key role in ensuring safe, efficient and reliable container terminal operations while delivering excellent outcomes for our customers and the broader freight network.

You will also:

• Lead and develop a large operational team in a 24/7 environment
• Champion a strong safety culture where Health, Safety and Wellbeing comes first
• Ensure terminal operations run efficiently and meet train and customer service targets
• Manage workforce planning, rostering and operational resourcing
• Monitor budgets, costs and performance outcomes
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, productivity and customer experience
• Build strong relationships with operational teams, customers, unions and key stakeholders
• This is a varied leadership role where you'll balance people leadership, operational performance, customer outcomes and business improvement

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What You Will Bring

• Proven experience leading large operational or frontline teams
• Strong people leadership and performance management capability
• Experience working within safety-critical, logistics, freight, transport, manufacturing, warehousing or industrial environments
• Sound understanding of operational planning, rostering and resource management
• Strong communication and stakeholder relationship skills
• Commercial awareness with experience managing costs and operational performance
• A commitment to safety, continuous improvement and customer service
• Relevant tertiary qualifications are advantageous, but practical leadership experience is equally valued

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

• Competitive salary plus a 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution
• Lead a critical operation that helps keep New Zealand's freight network moving
• Staff-discounted Southern Cross medical insurance  
• Discounts with a range of retail partners  
• Discounted staff travel across the KiwiRail network  
• Access to the NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust, including holiday homes nationwide and wellbeing support  

Apply online with your cover letter and CV. 

Applications close: 11 September 2026