Job Description
Te Tūranga | About the Role
We are looking for a Maintenance Engineer to join our Hawera site. You’ll provide essential engineering services, ensuring our processing equipment is maintained, safe, and reliable. Your work will include planned maintenance, breakdown response, and assisting with installations.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out mechanical repairs and preventative maintenance on processing equipment
- Respond quickly and safely to breakdowns to minimise downtime
- Support installation of new equipment and plant upgrades
- Work closely with supervisors and operators to resolve issues effectively
- Ensure compliance with food safety, health, and safety procedures
Monday to Friday, between 5am and 4pm with overtime on weekends as required.
Ōu Pūkenga | About You
You are a trade-qualified engineer with experience in industrial or food production settings. You’ll have practical knowledge of mechanical systems, plant reliability, and health and safety practices. Strong problem-solving skills, a hands-on approach, and the ability to work as part of a team are essential. CMMS knowledge and electrical skills would be an advantage.
You Will Bring
- A relevant trade qualification (e.g. mechanical, fitting, maintenance, or similar)
- Experience in industrial maintenance, preferably in FMCG or food processing
- Knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, conveyors, and general mechanical systems
- Strong fault-finding and problem-solving skills under pressure
- Familiarity with CMMS systems and basic computer literacy (preferred)
- Commitment to working safely and collaboratively in a team
What We Offer
- Be part of a supportive, and fun team
- Opportunity to work with industry leaders
- Career progression – Plenty of room to development & gain skills
- Discounted meat sales – Help feed your whanau
This opportunity is ideal for someone looking for the challenge of working for a large progressive company that supports career development.
Tono Mai | To Apply:
We assess applications as they are received so don’t delay click on "Apply" below to submit your application today. Applications close 21 May 2026.
Silver Fern Farms welcomes people from all backgrounds and walks of life. We are proud to have a diverse and inclusive environment and are committed to providing equal opportunities for all team members and applicants. Come and create goodness together with us. You can see more about our commitments to our people and their work by visiting our Belong Here webpage: https://careers.silverfernfarms.com/nz/en/belong-here
Responsibilities
- Undertake engineering repairs and maintenance to plant equipment, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
- Assist with planned maintenance schedules to minimize equipment failures and downtime.
- Install and commission new plant equipment, ensuring proper integration and functionality.
- Maintain pneumatic and hydraulic systems, mechanical drives, conveyer systems, and other plant-related equipment.
- Conduct regular inspections and identify potential hazards, implementing necessary safety measures.
- Isolate and secure equipment during maintenance to ensure a safe working environment.
- Collaborate with health and safety representatives to ensure compliance with AS/NZ2022:2003 Standards and company policies.
- Promote a culture of safety by actively participating in health and safety initiatives and reporting any incidents or near misses.
- Maintain excellent communication with colleagues, providing clear and concise updates on maintenance activities.
- Stay updated with industry trends and best practices, continuously improving maintenance strategies.
Qualifications
- Broad-based experience or a strong knowledge of plant mechanical and engineering practices, with a focus on maintenance operations.
- A relevant trade qualification, preferably in engineering or a related field.
- Demonstrated knowledge of legal and legislative compliance conditions related to plant engineering practices.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and Access Database systems.
- Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, with a high standard of English.
- A proactive approach to health and safety, taking personal responsibility and encouraging a safe work culture.
- Familiarity with lock-out procedures and hot work permits, ensuring a safe working environment.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Willingness to continuously learn and adapt to new technologies and industry advancements.
- A positive attitude and a commitment to delivering high-quality maintenance services.
