Mechanical Operations Lead

About Us

Juice Products New Zealand (JPNZ) is a leading processor of fruit and vegetables, producing premium juices and concentrates for global markets. Proudly based in Timaru and backed by Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation, we combine local heart with international reach. We’re growing — and we want you to grow with us.

The Role

The Mechanical Operations Lead is responsible for the engineering-led planning, coordination and continuous improvement of mechanical maintenance activities across our Timaru facility. The successful candidate will lead a team of skilled technicians and collaborate closely with other departments to optimise production workflows and achieve organisational goals.

In this role, you will be responsible for maintenance planning across mechanical engineering functions. You will manage the CMMS (MEX), coordinate contractors, oversee inventories, raise and reconcile purchase orders and invoices, and support both day‑to‑day maintenance and planned annual shutdown.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, scoping, and coordination of mechanical maintenance activities including the annual offseason maintenance period
• Develop and maintain preventative and condition-based maintenance strategies
• Ensure all maintenance activity is engineered, documented, prioritised, and recorded
• Act as the primary owner of CMMS (MEX) data quality, asset criticality, and maintenance plans
• Provide engineering expertise to improve plant reliability, safety, and lifecycle cost
• Collaborate with production and quality assurance teams to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

Qualifications:

• A minimum Level 4 engineering or related qualification
• 5+ years’ experience in a manufacturing or production environment
• Experience in planning maintenance operations
• Hands‑on experience using CMMS software (MEX experience desirable)
• Strong organisational, planning, and problem‑solving skills
• A solid understanding of engineering principles and maintenance workflows
• Experience or confidence in health and safety risk assessment and compliance
• A collaborative approach and the ability to build strong working relationships

Ready to Make a Real Impact?

Apply now and be part of a company that’s proud to deliver Healthy Natural New Zealand Goodness to the world — one batch at a time.