Tannery Engineer
Company Description
AFFCO is a high‑performing and dynamic leader within the New Zealand meat industry. Established in 1904, AFFCO holds over 120 years of expertise in supplying top‑quality meat products to the world.
Our Corporate Head Office is based in the Waikato, the agricultural heart of New Zealand, and supports more than 4,000 employees across the country. AFFCO operates 11 processing sites nationwide, with international offices in the USA, UK and Hong Kong, exporting to over 80 countries. We are 100% New Zealand‑owned and operated as part of the Talley’s Group – one of New Zealand’s leading exporters of meat, dairy, seafood, and vegetable products.
Job Description
We are seeking
a skilled and reliable Shift Engineer to join our engineering team
at the AFFCO Napier Tannery. Reporting to the Plant Engineer and working
closely with the Tannery Manager, this hands‑on role is responsible for
mechanical maintenance, breakdown response, and supporting the continuous
operation of our 24/7 tannery facility.
You will work
within a small but highly capable engineering team, supporting production
through effective repairs, preventative maintenance, and safe reinstatement of
equipment. The role requires strong mechanical aptitude, sound judgement, and
the ability to work independently during shifts.
This position operates within a rotating shift
structure and includes callout requirements to support production demands.
Key Responsibilities
Carry out mechanical repairs, servicing, and maintenance across tannery equipment and utilities
- Respond promptly to breakdowns and prioritise work to minimise downtime
- Complete preventative maintenance tasks and support continuous improvement initiatives
- Reinstate equipment safely after maintenance, including guards, utilities, and commissioning tests
- Assist with monitoring and maintaining critical spares
- Support safe operation of automated and PLC‑controlled equipment
- Maintain accurate maintenance records and documentation
- Work collaboratively with production, engineering, and contractor teams
- Uphold AFFCO’s health and safety standards and follow all safe work practices
Qualifications
The ideal
candidate will bring:
- A recognised mechanical trade qualification (e.g., Fitter & Turner, Maintenance Fitter, Engineering Trades)
- Experience in industrial, manufacturing, or processing environments
- Strong mechanical aptitude and hands‑on problem‑solving ability
- Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics, welding, machining, and diagnostics (advantageous)
- Familiarity with PLC‑controlled equipment (beneficial but not essential)
- Ability to work rotating shifts and respond to callouts
- Good communication skills and the ability to work independently
- A strong commitment to health, safety, and compliance
- Experience in tannery or hide processing environments (advantageous but training will be provided)
Additional Information
The successful
candidate will be rewarded with:
- A supportive and experienced site leadership team
- A varied and hands‑on mechanical role with autonomy
- Opportunities for development and progression
- Competitive remuneration
If you are a motivated tradesperson who takes pride in high‑quality workmanship and enjoys working in a fast‑paced industrial environment, then we want to hear from you. Please apply online or visit us at 26 Tyne Street, Pandora, Napier 4110.
To ensure a safe workplace, AFFCO engages in pre‑employment medical checks and drug screening. By applying for this role, you agree to undertake the necessary pre‑employment screening. Please ensure you provide a current ID (such as a Driver License or Passport).
