Project & Maintenance Manager

This is a rare opportunity to join a global automation powerhouse working in partnership with one of Australia's largest retailers. From project delivery and commissioning through to operational excellence, you'll play a pivotal role in delivering and running a state-of-the-art automated distribution centre in Western Sydney.

Starting in the project phase as the Project Deputy Site Manager, you'll be embedded within the site delivery team reporting into the Site Project Manager, overseeing installation, commissioning and test activities for a highly complex automated materials-handling solution. Once the site goes live, you'll transition into the Maintenance Manager role, leading a 24/7 technical operation ensuring maximum uptime, efficiency and safety across all systems. Leading people and building trusted relationships between the vendor and customer will be central to your success in this highly visible position. This is a senior role within an established global customer support division and a critical appointment for the business.

Your new role

Phase 1 - Project Delivery & Commissioning

• Act as a key on-site leader supporting the Site Manager in establishing and managing site operations.
• Coordinate and supervise installation and commissioning activities across mechanical, electrical and software disciplines.
• Execute and document test cases in collaboration with global commissioning engineers and subcontractors.
• Ensure safety leadership, compliance and risk management in line with NSW WHS requirements.
• Contribute to knowledge transfer from global engineering and customer support teams.
• Build strong working relationships with client stakeholders, subcontractors and global delivery teams.

Phase 2 - Maintenance Management & Site Operations (from 2027 onward)

• Lead all maintenance and support activities under the long-term service agreement for the automation system.
• Recruit, train and develop a high-performing on-site maintenance team operating across 24/7 shifts.
• Implement and manage the CMMS (Computerised Maintenance Management System) to monitor performance, reliability and KPI compliance.
• Oversee spare-parts management, preventive maintenance planning, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure adherence to all QHSE regulations and maintain close communication with client engineering and operational teams.
• Take ownership of contract management, performance reporting and service delivery outcomes.

What you'll need to succeed

Technical Skills

• Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronic or Automation Engineering.
• Minimum 5 years' experience leading large-scale maintenance or automation project teams involving mechanical, electrical and software systems.
• NSW Electrical Supervisor Licence (desirable).
• Strong understanding of commissioning, test management, and automation system integration.
• Proven ability to manage CMMS platforms and analyse maintenance KPIs.
• Solid understanding of NSW WHS, machine safety and Australian labour regulations.
• Experience working in or with global service organisations highly regarded.
• NSW Construction White Card.

Leadership & Interpersonal Skills

• Demonstrated ability to build trust-based relationships with internal teams and client stakeholders.
• A natural communicator who thrives in customer-facing environments, fostering collaboration and proactive issue resolution.
• Strong people-management capability with a focus on coaching, motivation, building a positive team culture with a high retention rate.
• Proven stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills at senior level.
• Acts as a key liaison between the client and technical teams, ensuring expectations are met and exceeded through transparent communication and reliable service delivery.
• Excellent hands-on leadership and coordination skills in a fast-paced environment.

What you'll get in return

This is a career-defining opportunity offering full lifecycle involvement-from commissioning a landmark automation project through to managing its ongoing operations. You'll work within a high-performing global team, receive world-class training including international exposure, and take ownership of a brand-new facility that sets the benchmark for automated logistics in Australia.

You'll enjoy a dynamic, collaborative and safety-driven environment with significant autonomy and long-term growth prospects.

What you need to do now

If you're a senior engineering or maintenance professional seeking to lead one of Australia's most technically advanced automation projects, click apply now or contact Sean Robb at Hays Recruitment on or for a confidential discussion.