Mechanical Technician

Matchbox; New Zealand; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

20 weeks fully paid parental leave

Competitive salaries

Office near Tamaki River / on-water/cq

Job summary

Vessev is hiring a Mechanical Technician for its Hydrofoil Systems team in New Zealand. The role focuses on assembling mechanical systems for hydrofoil vessels, troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment.

The successful candidate will work closely with design and build teams in a fast-paced environment. Applicants should have a Level 4 NZ certificate in Mechanical Engineering or related field, strong tooling skills, and the ability to read technical drawings.

Qualifications

• Experience with mechanical systems and assemblies.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and documents.
• Proactive problem-solver with a quality-focused mindset.

Responsibilities

• Assemble mechanical components per drawings and instructions.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical issues on vessel and workshop equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of assemblies, parts, and build times.

Skills

Mechanical assemblies

Reading drawings

Technical documentation

Education

Level 4 New Zealand certificate in Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeship or related field

Tools

Hand and power tools

Job description

At Vessev, we’re defining a new category of marine transport: hydrofoiling electric vessels that are genuinely better for people and the planet. Our boats fly above the surface using advanced hydrofoils, control systems, and electric propulsion – designed and built here in Aotearoa.

With strong momentum, global growth, and major milestones ahead, we’re looking for a Mechanical Technician to join the Hydrofoil Systems team. This is a rare opportunity to help us complete the assembly of the mechanical systems for our category-defining fleet.

The role

The Hydrofoil Systems team plays a central role in enabling Vessev’s hydrofoiling capability. Their work is what allows the vessel to operate efficiently on foils, forming a critical part of the overall system that brings the boat together as a complete, high-performance product.

With everyone working out of the same facility, our boat production teams are tightly integrated with the design team. No two days look the same, and this role covers everything from mechanical assembly to process improvements and workspace management while remaining willing to take on additional responsibilities to support team objectives.

What you’ll be doing

Mechanical assembly

You’ll need to be confident in assembling mechanical components and systems according to technical drawings, schematics and assembly instructions while also conducting inspections to ensure all assembled components and systems meet required quality standards and specifications.

Troubleshooting and maintenance

A hydrofoiling boat is a complex product of interdependent systems that requires regular maintenance in order to perform optimally. You would need confidence in diagnosing and resolving mechanical issues onboard the boat and in the workshop, along with the ability to implement effective corrective actions and carry out routine maintenance on assembly equipment and tools.

Documentation and record keeping

Accurate record keeping is an important part of the role, including tracking assembly processes, parts used, build times, and any issues encountered throughout vessel production and fit‑out.

Collaboration and process improvement

Working closely with design engineers and the wider build team, you’ll contribute feedback on assembly processes and suggest improvements as well as maintain accurate records of these processes, including parts used, assembly times and any issues encountered.

Inventory and workspace management

The role requires maintaining awareness of inventory levels for mechanical parts and materials, reporting shortages when needed, and helping keep the workshop and assembly areas clean, organised, and ready for efficient production work.

About you

You don’t need to be an expert on marine or electric vehicles, but you’ll have honed your skills in mechanical systems and assemblies. You do need to be proactive, self‑motivated, open to learning and capable of getting things done efficiently and to the highest standards.

We’re looking for someone with

• Level 4 New Zealand certificate in Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeship or a related field.
• Trained as a Mechanical Technician with proven experience in mechanical assemblies.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems and assembly techniques.
• Proficiency in using hand and power tools safely and effectively.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents and drawings.
• Proficient in working through digital work orders and process instructions.
• Curiosity and a drive to solve problems, innovate and challenge what’s considered possible
• Ability to take a flexible approach and adapt to change quickly.

Bonus Experience

• Experience in marine / motorsport / aerospace preferred but not required.
• Proven ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines.
• Tenacity and ability to think quickly with good judgement.

About us

We’re here to set a better world in motion – cleaner air, better commutes, and deeper connections with nature and each other. Our hydrofoiling electric vessels use up to 90% less energy than traditional boats, unlocking entirely new opportunities.

We’re backed by top‑tier investors including Blackbird Ventures, and our team includes talent from the America’s Cup, SpaceX, Rocket Lab, Halter, Apple, and leading climate startups. But titles don’t matter here – what matters is how we show up: with purpose, humility, and a restless optimism for what’s possible.

We’re office‑first but not office‑only. We believe in building together, in person, where the real magic happens. That said, we trust our team to do what’s right and we know life isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all.

Why our people love Vessev

• We’re building something different – from how we move on the water to the kind of team and workplace we’re creating
• The chance to work on technology that can drive real, lasting impact in the world
• A team of hugely talented and collaborative people.
• 20 weeks fully paid parental leave for primary caregivers, and 4 weeks for secondary (conditions apply).
• Competitive salaries that reflect the value of the work.
• Being on the water is part of our job – from trips on our vessels to our offices that border the Tamaki River.
• And if the water’s where you want to be, you’ll be in good company. You’ll find no shortage of boaters, beach goers, sailors, foilers, surfers, and kiteboarders here.

Research shows that women and other under‑represented groups often only apply when they meet every requirement – even though they could be an excellent fit. If you see yourself doing great work here, but don’t tick every box, we’d still love to hear from you. We’re building a team where everyone has the chance to do their best work.