Automation Systems Engineer

Silver Fern Farms Limited; Takapau; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discounted staff meat sales

Employee assistance with career and C/

Job summary

Silver Fern Farms Takapau seeks a motivated Automation Systems Engineer to maintain and install industrial automation equipment and systems on a large food processing site. The role requires PLC/automation experience, NZCE (Electrical) or higher, and strong communication skills with an electrical qualification at Level 4 or above.

The position runs Monday to Friday, 7am to 4pm, with opportunities to work on SCADA/HMI projects and ensure safety standards across the plant.

Qualifications

• Electrical qualification at Level 4 or higher.
• Experience with PLCs, VSDs, SCADA (Ignition preferred) and Rockwell.
• NZCE (Electrical) or tertiary IT or engineering qualification.
• Computer literacy - Word, Excel, databases; CAD preferred.
• Good written, oral and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience with SCADA development, HMI design, commissioning, and machine safety.
• Knowledge of AS/NZS, IEC, NFPA standards.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and install industrial automation equipment and systems at the Takapau site.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations to minimize downtime.
• Ensure electrical safety standards and compliance.
• Assist with commissioning and testing of automation projects.

Skills

Industrial automation knowledge

PLC/automation experience

SCADA development

HMI design

Electrical qualification Level 4+

Education

NZCE (Electrical) or tertiary IT/engineering qualification

Tools

Rockwell Automation

SCADA software (Ignition preferred)

CAD

PC hardware

Job description

Silver Fern Farms Takapau have an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and skilled tradesperson to join as an Automation Systems Engineer. This role is responsible for the maintenance and installation of industrial automation equipment and systems in our large food processing site. You will have strong communication, effective time management, and an electrical qualification at Level 4 or higher, with PLC/automation experience preferred. This role is Monday to Friday, between the hours of 7am to 4pm.

ŌuPūkenga/About You:

• Broad-based experience or a sound knowledge of industrial automation with a particular emphasis on PLCs, VSDs, SCADA, Rockwell Automation and PC hardware & software.
• Hold an NZCE (Electrical) or tertiary IT or engineering qualification.
• Computer literacy - proficiency in the use of Microsoft (Word, Excel), Data bases, and preferably CAD
• A good working knowledge of PC hardware and LANs
• Demonstrates excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills
• Experience with SCADA development (ignition preferred), HMI design, commissioning, and machine safety.
• Confidence in electrical system design and relevant standards (AS/NZS, IEC, NFPA).
• LV wiring and troubleshooting experience.

Te Ahurea /Why work at Silver Fern Farms?

Silver Fern Farms are all about Creating Goodness from the Farms the World Needs. Creating goodness is about taking a broader view of what goodness means, how we can create it and the impact it can have. That Goodness is created through the work of our People, the skill & expertise of our Farmers and our customers around the globe. ‘Goodness’ is also about being good to people and communities, animal welfare, and showing care and respect for the environment.

For you, we offer discounted staff meat sales and confidential employee assistance with career planning, financial advice and counselling.

If you are passionate excited at the prospect of joining one of New Zealand’s largest red meat exporters.

We assess applications as they are received so don’t delay. Applications close 16 th October 2026.

We are open to those that would need to relocate within New Zealand for this role, assistance could be provided (specifications apply).

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.