Maintenance Fitter

Job ID: 3281 \| Expertise: Engineering \| Location: Timaru \| Employment Type: Permanent \| Apply Before: 24/06/2026, 00:00AM

Te Tūranga / About the role

Our Pareora site in Timaru is the second largest within the Silver Fern Farms network, employing over 700 people at peak season. Due to continued growth, we’re seeking a capable and driven Maintenance Fitter to join our high-performing engineering team.

In this hands-on role, you’ll be responsible for the day-to-day mechanical maintenance and repair of plant equipment, ensuring our operation runs efficiently and reliably. You’ll be part of a strong, stable, and progressive team that takes pride in keeping production moving.

This role operates on a rotating roster across production hours, working 45 hours per week plus overtime, covering both day and night shifts. Flexibility is key in our seasonal environment and will set you up for success.

Te Mahi / Key Responsibilities

• Carry out mechanical repairs and preventative maintenance to minimise equipment downtime
• Respond to breakdowns quickly and effectively, restoring full production capacity safely and efficiently
• Champion a strong health and safety culture through active participation and leadership
• Ensure strict compliance with food hygiene and MPI regulations when working in controlled areas

Ōu Pūkenga / About You

You may come from FMCG or another production engineering environment, but what really matters is your ability to problem-solve, think analytically, and work collaboratively.

You’re someone who enjoys getting stuck in, asking the right questions, and getting to the root cause of issues - not just quick fixes. You bring fresh thinking, a proactive attitude, and a genuine interest in improving how things are done.

This role offers opportunities to work on new equipment installations, site projects, and a wide variety of engineering challenges across the plant.

You will also bring:

• A relevant Trade Qualification (Level 4 Mechanical Diagnostics \| Fitter/Turner \| Fitter/Welder)
• Experience in fabrication and sound knowledge of engineering principles (or a strong desire to develop in this area)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to act decisively
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• The ability to work both independently and within a close-knit team
• A strong commitment to health and safety
• Good organisation and the ability to prioritise in a fast-paced environment

Te Ahurea / Why work at Silver Fern Farms?

At Silver Fern Farms, we’re driven by our purpose: Creating Goodness from the Farms the World Needs.

“Goodness” is about more than what we produce - it’s about our people, our farmers, our customers, and the environment. We’re committed to doing the right thing and creating a positive impact in everything we do.

For you, that means:

• Discounted staff meat sales through our onsite Butcher’s Block
• Paid sick leave from day one
• BOOST employee retail discount scheme
• Subsidised health insurance
• Confidential support services including career, financial, and wellbeing advice
• Free onsite parking and full company uniform

Tono Mai / To Apply

Click ‘Apply’ to submit your application - we review applications as they come in, so don’t delay.

Silver Fern Farms welcomes people from all backgrounds and walks of life. We’re proud of our inclusive culture and are committed to equal opportunities for all.

Come and create goodness with us.