Refinery Operator

Scientific & Technical Recruitment; Auckland; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual profit share

Family-owned business culture

Ongoing training and development

Modern plant and PLC control systems

Job summary

Scientific & Technical Recruitment seeks a Senior Operator for a modern waste oil recycling facility in New Zealand. You will own plant performance, operate PLC-controlled systems, and support safe, efficient operation alongside an operations team.

You’ll bring hands-on experience in production environments, strong mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of permit-to-work procedures. The role involves shift work, including nights and weekends, with opportunities for development and a profit‑sharing

Qualifications

• Two years’ experience in a production facility, refinery, process plant, manufacturing or heavy industry.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with industrial equipment.
• Experience operating PLC-controlled processing systems.
• Knowledge of pumps, valves, motors and rotating equipment.
• Strong understanding of safe operating procedures and permit‑to‑work systems.
• Hands-on troubleshooting approach.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor and optimize PLC-controlled processing equipment.
• Monitor and control plant output and product quality; sample testing and parameter adjustments.
• Identify equipment issues early and minimise downtime.
• Carry out routine inspections and basic mechanical maintenance.
• Support maintenance teams during breakdowns and planned shutdowns.
• Respond to plant incidents and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

PLC systems

Pumps & rotating equipment

Safe operating procedures

Plant operations experience

Education

Process Operations / Mechanical Engineering qualification

Tools

PLC control systems

Job description

Apply your mechanical aptitude or manufacturing operations experience in one of New Zealand's newest waste oil recycling facilities.

Join a modern, purpose-built oil recycling facility using cutting-edge technology to convert waste oil into high-value base oils. As a senior operator on shift, you will be combining strong mechanical capability with process knowledge to keep the plant operating safely, efficiently and reliably.

This is a practical role where you'll work alongside the operations team carrying out plant operation, and basic maintenance while supporting the lead operator on shift.

Why This Role Stands Out

• Work in one of New Zealand's newest waste oil processing facilities
• Annual profit share
• Family-owned business where your contribution is valued
• Ongoing training and development
• Modern plant, equipment and PLC control systems

The Role

As a senior Operator, you'll take ownership of plant performance while supporting the safe and efficient operation of the refinery.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor and optimise PLC-controlled processing equipment
• Monitor and control plant output and product quality, including taking samples, carrying out routine testing, reviewing test results and adjusting operating parameters as required
• Identify equipment issues early and minimise downtime
• Carry out routine inspections and basic mechanical maintenance
• Support maintenance teams during breakdowns and planned shutdowns
• Respond to plant incidents breakdowns and support continuous improvement initiatives

About You

You’ll enjoy hands‑on work, solving problems and taking ownership of plant performance.

You’ll bring:

• At least two years’ experience in a similar production facility, refinery, process plant, manufacturing or heavy industry
• Strong mechanical aptitude and experience with industrial equipment
• Experience operating PLC-controlled processing systems
• Knowledge of pumps, valves, motors, and rotating equipment
• Strong understanding of safe operating procedures and permit‑to‑work systems
• A practical, calm approach to troubleshooting

A qualification in Process Operations, Mechanical Engineering or a related trade is highly regarded we are interested to hear from anyone who has on the ground experience.

Hours of Work

This is a shift‑based role within a 24/7 operation, involving both day and night shifts, and weekend work. A minimum of 30 working hours per week is guaranteed. Overtime and occasional call‑outs may also be required.

If you’re a mechanically minded operator who enjoys leading from the front and keeping plant running at its best, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact

Sarah Coad – Division Manager

Email: [e-mail]

Phone: [phone]