Industrial Electrician – Automation & Controls
Company Description
AFFCO is a
high-performing and dynamic leader within the New Zealand Meat Industry.
Established in 1904, AFFCO holds 120 years of expertise in supplying
top-quality meat products to the world.
Based in
Waikato, the agricultural heart of New Zealand, with over 4,000 employees, our
operation has offices in the USA, UK and Hong Kong and comprises of 11
processing sites situated across New Zealand, distributing to over 80
countries.
AFFCO sources top-quality, sustainable,
grass-fed, New Zealand Beef and Lamb products from our network of farmer
suppliers. We are 100% New Zealand owned and operated and a proud member of the
Talley’s Group; New Zealand’s leading exporter of meat, dairy, seafood, and
vegetable products.
Job Description
AFFCO Wairoa is
looking for an experienced Industrial Electrician – Automation & Controls
to support the Engineering Manager in delivering safe, reliable, and efficient
electrical and automation services across the site.
This is a
hands-on role covering everything from day‑to‑day electrical maintenance to
troubleshooting PLC/SCADA systems, supporting legacy control platforms, and
contributing to plant improvement projects. You will also play a key role in
helping prioritise work, supporting other trades staff, and ensuring high
engineering and safety standards are consistently met.
Based at the
AFFCO plant in Wairoa, and reporting to the Engineering Manager, you will be
responsible for:
- Carrying out electrical and automation maintenance across all production areas, including shift coverage when required.
- Diagnosing and repair faults on PLC, HMI, SCADA, VSDs, and associated control systems.
- Maintaining and support both modern automation systems and critical legacy platforms.
- Assisting with programming changes, HMI adjustments, control strategy improvements, and plant data collection.
- Interpreting wiring diagrams, schedules, and P&IDs to support troubleshooting and project work.
- Working closely with the Engineering Manager and Trades Team to prioritise jobs and ensure timely completion.
- Contributing to continuous improvement initiatives, including modernisation and cost‑saving projects.
- Ensuring all work is completed to a high standard, including reinstating safety guards, cleaning work areas, and performing commissioning tests.
- Promoting safe work practices and comply with all AFFCO food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
Qualifications
To be
successful in this role we are looking for someone with:
- NZ Registered Electrician with a current practising licence (NZQF Level 4 or equivalent),
- Proven industrial experience (FMCG or meat industry preferred),
- Strong technical capability across PLC, HMI, SCADA, and industrial communication protocols,
- Ability to work confidently with both modern and legacy control systems,
- Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to work independently,
- Clear communication skills and the ability to support and guide other trades staff,
- Commitment to safe work practices and high engineering standards.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly rate aligned with senior industrial electrical roles
- Opportunities for professional development and upskilling
- Supportive team environment
- Access to discounted meat and Talley’s Group products
- Free parking
- Perks membership offering discounted services (eye tests, dentist visits, Gilmours Wholesale, and more)
Additional Information
If you want to
join a successful, growing organisation and believe you have the skills and
experience to take on this role, please apply online through this ad or visit
us at the plant on
71 Hunter Brown Street, Wairoa.
