Mechanical Estimator / Contracts Engineer – Precision Machining
Shamrock Industries Limited – Sydenham, Christchurch
Full time • $45–$55 per hour

Help quote and deliver complex, precision‑machined projects across aviation, aerospace, marine, biomedical and defence.

We’re looking for an experienced Mechanical Estimator / Contracts Engineer to join Shamrock Industries, a specialist precision machining and contract manufacturing business based in Sydenham.

Internally we call this role a Customer Service Engineer (C.S.E.) – you’ll be the key link between our customers and our workshop team, turning enquiries into accurate quotes and delivering jobs “in full, on time, in specification”.

You must have full New Zealand working rights for this role.

About the role

You’ll take ownership of customer jobs from first enquiry through to invoicing, including:

• Receiving and responding to customer RFQs and technical enquiries

• Interpreting complex mechanical drawings and 3D CAD models (e.g. SolidWorks)

• Preparing accurate estimates and quotations for precision‑machined components, assemblies and repairs

• Creating job travellers and instructions for the workshop and coordinating any sub‑contracted/outwork services

• Sourcing materials and services from our supplier network

• Monitoring progress to make sure every job is delivered on time, in full and to spec

• Working with our Finance & Administration Manager to review supplier invoices and issue accurate customer invoices

You’ll work closely with fellow C.S.E.s (Aviation/Defence, Aerospace, Special Projects) and our 17‑strong workshop team in a collaborative SME environment.

About you

You’re a hands‑on engineer with a strong machining background who enjoys solving problems for customers and getting jobs over the line.

You will ideally have:

• Significant experience as a metalwork machinist (manual and CNC)

• Proven experience estimating/quoting precision‑machined components

• Experience estimating precision fitting/assembly and, ideally, some welding/fabrication

• A practical, “fit‑for‑purpose” approach to mechanical repairs and refurbishment

• Good knowledge of NZ mechanical engineering materials and service suppliers

• Confidence reading complex drawings and working with 3D CAD models

• Familiarity with GD&T and working in ISO‑certified and safety‑focused environments

• Experience with MRP/ERP systems (ideally ECi‑M1) and tools like MS Project

• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills – you’re comfortable dealing with customers and internal teams

• Ability to juggle multiple jobs, prioritise effectively and maintain attention to detail under pressure

About Shamrock Industries

Shamrock has a toolmaking heritage and now specialises in precision machining and project management for:

• Aviation and aerospace

• Marine and biomedical

• Australian/NZ defence industry

• NZ R&D/innovation institutions and related start‑ups

We’re also an original equipment manufacturer, supplying a small suite of products to customers worldwide. We operate a Telarc‑registered ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System and hold SiteWise Green OSH status.

The business is growing and has recently invested in a new CMM, further lifting our capability and quality assurance.

Why you’ll enjoy working here

• Competitive pay: $45–$55 per hour, depending on experience

• Interesting work: varied projects supporting cutting‑edge industries

• Autonomy: own jobs from first enquiry through to final delivery

• Small, supportive team: 17‑person SME with a collaborative culture

• Professional environment: modern workshop, strong quality and safety systems

How to apply

If this sounds like you and you hold full New Zealand working rights, we’d love to hear from you.

Click Apply and include your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your estimating and machining experience.

For a confidential chat or a detailed position description, contact:

Pat Fogarty, Managing Director
Shamrock Industries Limited
Phone: +64 3 365 7906
Email: pat@shamrock.co.nz