Refinery Operator

Scitex Recruitment; Pukekohe; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Profit share

Family-owned business

Training & development

Modern plant & PLC systems

Job summary

Scitex Recruitment is seeking a Senior Operator for a modern oil recycling facility in New Zealand. You will operate and monitor PLC-controlled equipment, perform basic maintenance, and assist the lead operator to keep the plant running safely and efficiently.

The role requires hands-on problem solving, strong mechanical skills, and experience with industrial pumps, valves and rotating equipment. Shift work with day/night rotations, 24/7 operation, and a profit-friendly environment are offered.

Qualifications

• Two years or more in a production facility, refinery, or heavy industry
• Experience with industrial equipment
• Understanding of safe operating procedures and permit-to-work systems

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor and optimise PLC-controlled processing equipment
• Monitor plant output and product quality and adjust operating parameters
• Carry out routine inspections and basic mechanical maintenance
• Support maintenance teams during breakdowns and shutdowns
• Respond to plant incidents and support continuous improvement initiatives

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

PLC experience

Pumps, valves, motors

Education

Process Operations qualification

Mechanical Engineering qualification

Tools

PLC systems

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

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

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.

Sarah Coad – Division Manager
*****@scitex.co.nz
09 200 3125