POSITION DESCRIPTION

Title: Automation & Control Systems Engineer
Reports to: Managing Director
Location: Tait Controls 2011 Limited Te Rapa, with travel to customer sites across New Zealand (primarily during commissioning phases).
Position Type: Full time, Permanent (40 hours per week, Monday to Friday).

Salary : To be negotiated with the successful candidate

Package includes use of company vehicle.

The position includes paid overtime to support commissioning of your projects.

POSITION PURPOSE

This role is responsible for delivering automation and control system projects from design through to commissioning. The position requires hands-on technical skills in PLC programming, SCADA/HMI configuration, machine safety systems, and project commissioning, combined with project management capability. You will work independently or as part of a team to ensure automation solutions are designed, installed, and commissioned to meet customer needs and safety standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Project Delivery & Engineering

• Develop, configure, and test PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems.

• Undertake commissioning activities including start-up, troubleshooting, and optimisation of equipment and systems.

• Implement and test machine safety systems; conduct fault finding and final commissioning.

• Produce CAD electrical drawings and automation system designs (where required).

• Prepare and follow Functional Descriptions and other project documentation.

• Supervise installation activities and contractors at customer sites.

• Ensure compliance with relevant New Zealand safety standards and company protocols on all projects.

Project Management

• Support the planning and scheduling of automation projects.

• Monitor project progress, risks, and deliverables.

• Communicate clearly with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to ensure project expectations are met.

Customer Support

• Provide system support during commissioning and in-service phases.

• Maintain strong relationships with customers through professional communication and delivery.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• Our customers are based across New Zealand and the role requires travel outside of Hamilton to provide support and commissioning. A clean New Zealand Driver's License will be required.

• Travel, accommodation, and allowances will be provided in line with company policy.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Essential:

• Demonstrated 5 years' experience as an Automation Project Engineer, including safety and commissioning projects.

• Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting skills (experience across at least some of Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, Beckhoff, Omron).

• HMI and SCADA configuration experience.

• Understanding and application of Functional Descriptions.

• Strong grasp of machine safety systems and related commissioning.

• New Zealand Tertiary qualification in Engineering or equivalent Automation Engineer experience (Automation, Software, Control Systems, Mechatronics, Electrical, Process, Computer Science or equivalent).

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and actively contribute to a multi-disciplinary high performance team.

Desirable:

• CAD electrical design and layout experience.

• SQL or other database development/use.

• Electrical design (layout experience or drafting).

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Problem-solving, critical and analytical thinking.

• Strong customer service focus.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities under time pressure.

• Flexible approach with willingness to travel and work on-site.

• Commitment to health, safety, and quality standards.

MEASURES OF SUCCESS

The success of this role will be measured by the ability to:

Project Delivery

• Deliver automation projects on time, within budget, and to agreed quality standards.

• Complete commissioning phases with minimal disruption and reduced downtime for customers.

• Ensure all project documentation (Functional Descriptions, CAD drawings, commissioning reports) is accurate, timely, and aligned to company standards.

Technical Performance

• Demonstrate accurate and efficient PLC, HMI, and SCADA programming.

• Apply strong diagnostic and fault-finding skills to resolve technical issues effectively.

• Ensure machine safety systems are designed and commissioned in compliance with NZ and AS/NZS standards.

Customer Experience

• Build and maintain positive client relationships, with customer feedback reflecting satisfaction in both technical delivery and communication.

• Provide professional, clear updates during projects and support periods.

• Ensure customer downtime during commissioning is minimised and issues are resolved promptly.

Teamwork and Collaboration

• Work proactively with colleagues in a flexible, team-oriented way.

• Share knowledge, mentor junior team members (where applicable), and contribute to a supportive team environment.

• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders (engineering, project management, leadership).

Health & Safety and Compliance

• Adhere strictly to site safety standards, achieving zero preventable incidents at customer or company sites.

• Actively identify risks and hazards and contribute to a culture of safety awareness.

Professional Development

• Keep technical skills (PLC programming, SCADA/HMI, safety systems) current with evolving industry standards.

• Show evidence of continuous improvement and willingness to adopt new tools, software platforms or methodologies.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

All employees are expected to:

• Comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and company policies and procedures of Tait Controls and all of our customers.

• Take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others.

• Report hazards, incidents, and near misses promptly.

• Comply with the employers and customers

VALUES AND BEHAVIOURS

• Professionalism in customer and team interactions.

• Teamwork and collaboration.

• Integrity in technical delivery and decision making.

• Continuous improvement mindset.