Training and Development Specialist

Port Otago Group’s business comprises a regional container terminal, bulk port activities, cruise and property investment and development. We service South Canterbury, Otago, and Southland, working with customers to streamline their supply chains. Our culture is hands-on, safety focused and encourages continuous improvement. 

Our diverse portfolio means there is always something on the go and as a business we are collaborative, fast-paced and always open.

About the role:

We have a fantastic opportunity for a Training and Development Specialist to join our team on a permanent full-time basis in our award winning, vibrant Head Office in beautiful Port Chalmers, Dunedin. 

Reporting to the Training and Development Lead, this role is responsible for providing training and development services across our Port Otago teams including:

• Working with subject matter experts to build effective training manuals and practical assessment packages.
• Developing and building online eLearning modules.
• Acting as a champion for our Learning Management System, ensuring it is fully utilised, continuously improved, and embedded as a core part of our learning culture.

The full range of training and development co-ordination, such as:

• Maintaining, reviewing and updating Training Needs Analyses.
• Using the Learning Management System to collate data and produce reports for our frontline leaders.
• Working with Leaders and Team Supervisors to develop training plans for their team, to map future skills gaps and build succession plans.
• Mentoring and developing Team Trainers and Team Assessors on training and assessment best practice.

About you:

You’ll thrive in a fast‑paced, hands‑on environment where no two days look the same. You’re curious, the kind of person who jumps in, solves problems on the fly, and keeps multiple priorities moving with ease. Most importantly, you bring positivity, resilience, and plenty of initiative.

You will need to be comfortable working at heights and being on the water, as from time to time you will need to work alongside subject matter experts on Port Otago’s ship-to-shore cranes, straddle carriers, and marine assets.

You will also bring: 

• Experience in training specialist or advisory roles, including creating practical training materials and assessment tools.
• A solid grasp of adult learning principles and how to apply them.
• The ability to turn complex processes into plain English training materials.
• Strong coordination skills with a knack for accurate training record management.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build strong relationships quickly.
• Strong computer skills including experience with Learning Management systems, and experience with Articulate eLearning software (or similar).
• Experience conducting Training Needs Analyses and producing skills matrices and reports.
• A proactive, flexible, self‑starting approach.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

What’s in it for you? 

You’ll get to work with a supportive, driven and collaborative team who turn up every day to make a difference. You’ll also have access to a range of fantastic benefits including:

• A competitive remuneration package and support for your ongoing development.
• 7% employer superannuation contribution.
• Company-paid comprehensive health insurance cover for you, your partner, and any dependent children (valued at $8,800 per year).
• Amazing Otago Harbour views from your desk, free on-site parking, EV chargers and secure bike storage.
• Fruit boxes delivered weekly to break areas, full uniform provided, Nespresso machines on-site for your daily coffee fix, and various wellness initiatives throughout the year.

Heads up:

• This is typically a Monday to Friday position, but as the Port operates 24/7, occasionally some flexibility is required.
• You must have a high standard of health and safety.
• You must be able to pass Ministry of Justice, ACC checks and a medical which includes a drug and alcohol test as part of our recruitment process.
• We complete random drug and alcohol testing.

How do I apply? 

Please apply online via our website to ensure our Port Otago Application Form is completed.

Ensure that you include a copy of your up-to-date CV along with your application.  

Applications close 5pm, Monday 11 May 2026.

Apply now