Mechanic

WELCOME TO OUR CORNER OF NT

Cooinda Lodge in Kakadu, Northern Territory is proudly located on Murumburr country, Kakadu, where culture has been unbroken for more than 65,000 years.

Working at Cooinda means understanding the concept and practice of caring for and living on Country. This life-changing opportunity offers enriching experiences culturally, in the wilderness, and as part of a tight-knit team in a rare aspect of the tourism business.

A land of epic waterfalls and wetlands, rich cultural sites and some of the world's most diverse plant and animal life, Kakadu is recognized as a double World Heritage listed National Park at the heart of an Australian adventure.

The mechanic is responsible for the maintenance, servicing, and repair of a varied fleet of vehicles and equipment essential to Cooinda Lodge’s operations. This role includes diagnostics, repairs, and preventive maintenance on assets ranging from:

• Ride-on lawnmowers and landscaping equipment
• Troop carriers (“troopys”) and passenger vans used for transport
• 30+ seat boats for tourism operations
• Large 4x4 off-road buses for tours and shuttling
• Golf buggies for lodge and guest services
• Generators up to 550w, critical for site operations

The mechanic will ensure all vehicles and equipment meet safety standards and perform reliably to support Cooinda Lodge’s daily functions and guest services.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintenance and Repair: Diagnose and repair mechanical issues on a wide range of vehicles and machinery, including engines, transmissions, hydraulics, electrical systems, and cooling systems.
• Preventive Maintenance: Develop and implement a maintenance schedule to reduce downtime, ensure reliability, and extend the lifespan of all equipment.
• Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of vehicles and equipment to identify wear, damage, or safety concerns, proactively addressing potential issues.
• Record Keeping: Maintain clear, accurate records for each vehicle and piece of equipment, documenting service schedules, repairs completed, and parts used.
• Safety Compliance: Ensure all maintenance work aligns with safety standards, lodge policies, and environmental considerations; conduct safety checks on vehicles and machinery as required.
• Collaboration: Partner with operations and guest services teams to prioritize repairs, advise on equipment best practices, and plan scheduled maintenance effectively.

• Experience: Minimum of 3 years as a mechanic, preferably in a remote, tourism, or multi-vehicle setting.
• Certifications: Certification in Automotive Mechanical Technology or Diesel Mechanics is preferred; additional certifications in marine mechanics or small engine repair are advantageous.
• Driver’s License: Valid driver’s license with a heavy vehicle endorsement preferred.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in diagnosing and repairing a variety of engines, including diesel, small gasoline engines, and marine engines.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Strong diagnostic skills with an ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues effectively.
• Communication Skills: Clear communication skills for interacting with team members and maintaining service records.

To work as a part of a team within a remote community requires dynamic flexibility and strong leadership. We ask that our staff:

• Show deep respect to all Traditional Owners and Custodians.
• Prioritise community outcomes, collective health and well-being.
• Support local cultural relationships, a healthy workplace environment, and visitor experience.
• Utilise strong emotional intelligence and creative problem-solving skills to be an inspiring leader and strong support for our organisation.
• Support local Bininj (people) to thrive in the workplace, which may be their first professional experience within a western framework.
• Welcome the opportunity to live in a remote, dynamic region where the discipline of self-care is an essential aspect of life.
• Lead by example and help educate others.
• Contribute to an enriching, enlivening community experience that is, for many, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.