Automation Engineer - Projects

About the role

We are on the lookout for an Automation Engineer to lead and contribute to high-impact automation projects in our cutting-edge, highly automated dairy manufacturing environment.

In this role, you’ll be at the forefront of delivering smart technology solutions that drive operational excellence. Whether optimising existing systems or implementing new automation projects, you’ll work on diverse, exciting initiatives that touch production, IT, quality, and maintenance teams.

Key responsibilities of this role include..

Deliver and support site ‑ wide automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA platforms (e.g., InTouch, Ignition)

Support capital projects by contributing to the design and implementation of automation and controls

Lead end ‑ to ‑ end project management for automation initiatives, including scoping, planning, execution, and stakeholder coordination

Work with recipe management, traceability systems, and ERP integration to optimise production

Troubleshoot automation issues, investigate root causes, and implement robust technical solutions

Contribute to OT network design, data architecture, and cybersecurity protocols

Work cross ‑ functionally with production, maintenance, IT, and quality teams

Skills and Experience

We welcome engineers who are experienced or early in their career but with strong practical exposure. You’ll need to be proactive, tech-savvy, and collaborative.

Degree or diploma in Mechatronics, Electrical, Computer, or Control Systems Engineering.

Hands-on experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Allen Bradley preferred), HMI, SCADA systems.

Proven experience managing automation or engineering projects, including planning, stakeholder coordination, risk management, and delivery in a manufacturing environment.

Some scripting/programming experience (Python, .NET, C#) and database/SQL knowledge.

Understanding of OT networking, system integration, and cybersecurity practices.

Practical, solutions-focused mindset with strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively on the floor and with teams.

About us – The Synlait Spirit

Synlait is more than a global leader in milk nutrition – we're a purpose-led team that’s Doing Milk Differently For A Healthier World. Our Synlait Spirit guides everything we do, from how we show up each day to the impact we create together. You’ll be joining an authentic, down-to-earth team that lives the three values that underpin the Synlait Spirit.

Be The Difference means we understand before we act – that means asking why, supporting each other to think differently, stay curious, and continuously look for smarter ways to deliver value. Whether it’s in the paddock, the plant or the boardroom, we’re driven by impact and inspired to make a meaningful difference every day.

We Move as One by working together with respect, trust and a shared commitment to doing what’s right. We collaborate across teams to deliver innovative solutions and create opportunity for those around us.

We feed the world’s most vulnerable, including newborn babies, so we have to be Right on the Mark . That means we take accountability seriously, act with courage and focus our energy on what matters most. We combine expert farming and state of the art processing to deliver high quality nutritional products to all over the world.

At Synlait you’ll be challenged and supported to grow. We know everyone brings something unique to the table so we’re an inclusive workplace, where diverse perspectives fuel innovation and success.

What we offer:* Health insurance cover \& partnered with top brands for great benefits and discounts

Excellent parental leave with our Matua policy

B Corp TM certified

Social Club membership opportunities

What's next?

Include your most recent CV and cover letter summarising your abilities and what you can bring to Synlait. We wish you the best of luck in your application. We encourage you to apply early as we will be reviewing applications regularly and may close the advertisement early.

Together we will continue to create a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their best.

Applicants outside of New Zealand will only be considered if you have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

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