Automation Engineer

Tatua is seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer to join our core Site Services team, supporting a high‑performing and continually evolving dairy manufacturing operation.

This is a hands‑on role where you’ll play a critical part in maintaining, improving and developing Tatua’s site‑wide automation systems. You’ll work closely with engineering, electrical, production and project teams to ensure plant reliability, safety and future‑focused automation solutions.

Reporting to the Site Services Manager, you will be responsible for the ongoing support, maintenance and development of Tatua’s automation platforms, including both software and hardware. You will also contribute to capital projects and upgrades across the site and provide specialist automation support to other departments.

In this role, you will:

• Responding to automation software and hardware issues that impact plant operations
• Troubleshooting and resolving PLC, SCADA and automation faults in a timely manner
• Developing, testing and implementing automation software for plant upgrades and new projects
• Supporting capital projects, including software design, testing and commissioning
• Managing automation hardware and software lifecycles, including spares, licensing and forecasting
• Working with third‑party automation contractors to ensure Tatua standards are met
• Supporting cyber security initiatives alongside ICT to protect automation systems
• Providing automation expertise for investigations and non‑conformances
• Participating in an on‑call roster (approximately one week in three) for out‑of‑hours support.

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechatronics, Electronics or similar) or an ICT degree with strong programming content
• Practical experience with PLC programming and SCADA systems in an industrial environment
• Strong troubleshooting and process optimisation skills
• Familiarity with PLC programming languages such as Structured Text (ST), Function Block (FB), Sequential Function Chart (SFC) and Ladder Diagram (LD)
• Experience with industrial communication protocols such as Modbus TCP and Ethernet/IP
• Understanding of function descriptions, P&IDs and process documentation
• Sound knowledge of industrial networks and Microsoft Windows operating systems
• Experience in food, beverage or dairy manufacturing is advantageous but not essential
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Working hours are typically forty hours per week Monday – Friday, with one week in three on call to address out of hours automation breakdowns.

Applications will be assessed throughout the duration of this advertisement.

Our Values at Tatua

• Co-Operative at the Core: We create shared success for our people, shareholders, customers and community
• Committed to Tomorrow: We encourage innovation to forge our own path for a thriving future
• Everyday Good People: We take pride in doing our best, with care and integrity

Applications close: 07 April 2026

What we offer:

• Subsidised Medical Insurance
• Life, Disability & Income Protection Insurance 
• Development & Training opportunities
• Additional Parental Leave
• Comprehensive Wellbeing Package: Workstation Assessment, Annual Health Screenings, Free Flu Vaccines, EAP Services, Onsite Wellbeing Committee
• Discounted Staff Products
• Free onsite Secure Parking

Position description Apply now

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