Join our evolving team of creative problem solvers!
SWITCHBACK has achieved what the industry said couldn't be done - a ride system that combines the reach of a zipline with the creativity of a roller coaster, proven in the field and ready to scale.
We’re on the lookout for a Product Manager to form part of our growing Ride team for SWITCHBACK. This is an exciting opportunity for a rare individual who can hold Chief Engineer authority alongside product ownership to complete the product, build the team and processes, and take Switchback to the world.
This is a full-time role, based in Christchurch, with hybrid working options. If you're keen to be part of the action, please read on!
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
* Provide combined technical authority and product ownership as Switchback transitions to a standalone product entity.
* Own the product vision, roadmap, and customer proposition, driven by market intelligence and business objectives.
* Act as Chief Engineer and final technical authority across all sub-systems: structural, mechanical, electro‑mechanical, powertrain, controls, and rider experience.
* Own the systems engineering discipline - requirements, interfaces, configuration, ECM, V&V, and technical risk.
* Define and embed structured product development processes as Switchback transitions from consultancy model to standalone organisation.
* Manage end‑to‑end product development - backlog, design reviews, acceptance testing, documentation, and budget.
* Lead, coach, and develop a multidisciplinary engineering team of 8‑10, building systems engineering capability and a culture of rigour.
* Act as primary technical interface to customers, operators, commercial functions, regulators, and senior leadership.
What you'll bring to the team:
* Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or closely related discipline.
* Strong working knowledge across structural, mechanical, and electro‑mechanical systems and all sub‑system domains.
* Working knowledge of powertrain and drive systems - motors, controllers, gearboxes, battery systems, and BMS.
* Knowledge of product development lifecycles, roadmap development, and backlog management.
* Understanding of structured engineering processes - design reviews, DFMA, FMEA, FAT, and SAT.
* Demonstrated ability to act as technical authority on a complex, multi‑disciplinary product.
* Proven experience leading systems engineering and managing technical risk across complex programmes.
* Demonstrated experience leading end‑to‑end product development from concept to market deployment.
* Proven ability to establish and embed structured engineering processes in a team transitioning to formalised ways of working.
* Proven ability to engage with customers in a technical capacity during pre‑sales and proposal activities.
* Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop multidisciplinary engineering teams through process maturity uplifts.
It would be desirable to have the following:
* Knowledge of amusement ride design, ropeways, cable‑driven systems, rail‑guided vehicles, or similar.
* Familiarity with relevant standards for amusement rides and safety‑related control systems.
* Knowledge of CAD‑based layout planning and visualisation tools.
* Experience working with battery certification, functional safety, or SIL/PL‑rated systems.
About Holmes Solutions:
We work with international clients in many industries including adventure recreation, construction, and roadside hardware. We cover everything from ideation and R&D, to testing, compliance and accreditation. It’s fair to say there’s never a dull moment in our design hub!
Why Join Holmes Solutions?
We're a close‑knit team that champions innovation, knowledge‑sharing, and work‑life balance. We celebrate diversity, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds because we believe in the power of varied perspectives to drive innovation.
Take Your Next Step With Us:
If you’re an experienced Product Manager with a similar Engineering background looking for your next exciting challenge, we’d love to hear from you!
Click here to see our Switchback ride in action!
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