Apprentice – Maintenance Engineer

About this opportunity

We are seeking an Apprentice Maintenance Engineer to join our team and work closely with our Maintenance Manager. In this hands‑on role, you’ll support the effective maintenance, repair, and continuous improvement of our plant machinery and equipment while building the technical skills and experience needed to become a fully qualified Maintenance Engineer.

As part of the maintenance team, you will learn and apply both preventative and reactive maintenance practices, contribute to equipment reliability, and help maintain high standards of safety, quality, and operational performance across the site.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• Assist with preventative and reactive maintenance tasks to improve equipment reliability and minimise unplanned downtime.
• Support breakdown response under supervision, including basic fault diagnosis and equipment repair.
• Gain hands-on experience in machine repairs, including hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Support welding, fabrication, turning, and machining tasks as part of equipment maintenance and component repair.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across the site, including equipment optimisation, minor upgrades, and waste reduction activities.
• Actively participate in on‑the‑job learning and off‑site training required to progress toward becoming a qualified Maintenance Engineer, including maintaining accurate training records.
• Follow all WHSE procedures and participate in toolbox talks, safety checks, risk reviews, and other activities that support a zero‑harm workplace.
• Promote strong health, safety, and environmental behaviours by reporting hazards, using PPE correctly, meeting WHSE standards, and supporting compliance with systems such as FSSC22000, HACCP, and ISO14001.

Your skills and experience

To be successful in this role, you’ll have:

• NCEA Level 2 or equivalent, ideally with strengths in Math, Science, or Technology.
• Genuine interest in mechanical or electrical engineering and hands‑on practical work.
• Eligibility to enroll in a New Zealand Apprenticeship programme.
• Pre‑trade engineering study is an advantage but not required.
• Basic understanding of tools, machinery, or mechanical processes, whether gained through school, hobbies, or previous work.
• Positive problem‑solving attitude and a willingness to learn from experienced tradespeople.
• Ability to follow instructions, work safely, and ask questions when needed.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Reliable, motivated, and committed to completing a multi‑year apprenticeship.