Maintenance Fitter - AFFCO Imlay

Company Description

AFFCO is a high-performing and dynamic leader within the New Zealand Meat Industry. Established in 1904, AFFCO holds over 120 years of expertise in supplying top-quality meat products to the world.

Based in Waikato, New Zealand, with over 4,000 employees, our operation includes offices in the USA, UK and Hong Kong and comprises 11 processing sites across New Zealand, exporting to over 80 countries.

AFFCO sources top-quality, sustainable, grass-fed, New Zealand Beef and Lamb products from our network of farmer suppliers. We are 100% New Zealand-owned and operated and a proud member of the Talley’s Group; New Zealand’s leading exporter of meat, dairy, seafood, and vegetable products.

Job Description

Sick of just having a job and want a career? Join our motivated, skilled, and friendly Trades team today to learn new skills and excel in a fast-paced maintenance environment. Focusing on reliability and productivity - we need you to help us keep the machine well-oiled and running smoothly.

AFFCO Imlay is seeking a skilled and reliable Shift / Maintenance Fitter to join our engineering team at our processing facility in Whanganui. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, this hands‑on role is responsible for mechanical maintenance, breakdown response, and supporting the continuous operation of our 24/7 processing facility.

You will work within a small but highly capable engineering team, supporting production through effective repairs, preventative maintenance, and safe reinstatement of equipment. The role requires strong mechanical aptitude, sound judgement, and the ability to work independently during shifts.

This position operates within a rotating shift structure and includes callout requirements to support production demands.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out mechanical repairs, servicing, and maintenance across tannery equipment and utilities
• Respond promptly to breakdowns and prioritise work to minimise downtime
• Complete preventative maintenance tasks and support continuous improvement initiatives
• Reinstate equipment safely after maintenance, including guards, utilities, and commissioning tests
• Assist with monitoring and maintaining critical spares
• Support safe operation of automated and PLC‑controlled equipment
• Maintain accurate maintenance records and documentation
• Work collaboratively with production, engineering, and contractor teams
• Uphold AFFCO’s health and safety standards and follow all safe work practices

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will bring:

• A recognised mechanical trade qualification (e.g., Fitter & Turner, Maintenance Fitter, Engineering Trades)
• Experience in industrial, manufacturing, or processing environments
• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands‑on problem‑solving ability
• Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics, welding, machining, and diagnostics (advantageous)
• Familiarity with PLC‑controlled equipment (beneficial but not essential)
• Ability to work rotating shifts and respond to callouts
• Good communication skills and the ability to work independently
• A strong commitment to health, safety, and compliance
• Experience in tannery or hide processing environments (advantageous but training will be provided)

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be rewarded with:

• A supportive and experienced site leadership team
• A varied and hands‑on mechanical role with autonomy
• Opportunities for development and progression
• Competitive remuneration

If you are a motivated tradesperson who takes pride in high‑quality workmanship and enjoys working in a fast‑paced industrial environment, then we want to hear from you. Please apply online today!

To ensure a safe workplace, AFFCO engages in pre‑employment medical checks and drug screening. By applying for this role, you agree to undertake the necessary pre‑employment screening.

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