Horticultural Machinery Operations Technician

About the Role

The Horticultural Machinery Operations Technician is responsible for coordinating the efficient operation, monitoring, maintenance, and optimisation of orchard machinery and equipment. The role requires technical knowledge of mechanical systems, machinery diagnostics, preventative maintenance programmes, and equipment performance monitoring to support productive and efficient orchard operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the deployment and operation of specialised horticultural machinery across orchard activities depending on current activities/planned servicing requirements.  
• Monitor machinery performance and identify operational, mechanical, and equipment-related issues.
• Conduct routine inspections of machinery and equipment to assess condition, performance, and maintenance requirements.
• Diagnose faults and determine appropriate repair, servicing, or replacement actions
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules to maximise machinery reliability and minimise operational downtime.
• Maintain technical records relating to equipment usage, servicing, repairs, inspections, and maintenance activities.
• Liaise with external service providers, technicians, and suppliers regarding machinery servicing, repairs, and any support issues.
• Monitor machinery operating costs, fuel consumption, and equipment performance data.
• Recommend and implement improvements to machinery utilisation, operational efficiency, and equipment performance.
• Ensure machinery is operated in accordance with workplace health and safety requirements, and company procedures.
• Assist with the testing, commissioning, and implementation of new machinery, equipment, and mechanical systems where required.  
• Provide technical guidance and operational instruction to machinery operators regarding equipment use, maintenance requirements, and safe operating procedures.
• Assist with procurement of machinery parts, components, consumables, and replacement equipment as required.
• Ensuring all licensing (if required) is kept up to date as per operational and NZ legislative requirements.

Skills and Experience Required

Applicants must have either:

• A relevant qualification at NZQF Level 4 or higher in mechanical engineering, agricultural engineering, automotive engineering, heavy machinery, plant mechanics, or a related field;

OR

• At least three years of relevant work experience in machinery operations, machinery maintenance, mechanical diagnostics, agricultural machinery, horticultural equipment management, or a related field deemed suitable by the Director. 

The successful applicant will also:

• Strong knowledge of mechanical equipment and machinery systems.
• Experience in identifying and diagnosing machinery faults. 
• Knowledge of preventative maintenance programmes and machinery servicing requirements.
• Ability to maintain accurate technical and maintenance records.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to workplace health and safety standards.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A current driver's licence.

What We Offer

• Permanent full-time employment.
• Competitive pay rate of $35.00 - $40.00 per hour (depending on experience)
• Guaranteed minimum of 30 hours per week. Maximum 50 hours per week as per workload requirements.
• Opportunity to work within New Zealand's kiwifruit industry.
• Supportive team environment.
• Long-term career development opportunities.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your qualifications, technical experience, and suitability for the role.

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain the appropriate work visa.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.