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Energy Centre Operator / Utilities Engineer - Studholme

Job Name
Energy Centre Operator / Utilities Engineer

General Information

Date Published
01-Jul-2026
Advertising Ends
12-Jul-2026
ID#
16002
Role Type
Energy Centre
Work Type
Permanent Full-Time
Workplace Type
On-site
Country
New Zealand
Location
Canterbury

Position Description

Imagine Tomorrow with Us | Ata whakaarohia tō āpōpō
At Fonterra Te Mātāpuna, we want everyone to feel they can be themselves. 

Whether you're early in your career or ready for your next step, Fonterra offers a unique opportunity to grow with a global dairy co-operative that values care, collaboration, and contribution. 

Owned by New Zealand dairy farmers and supported by a dedicated team, we are all working together to create a better future. Imagine tomorrow with us, where your career can grow, and you can create positive change.

About us | He kupu mō mātou
Located in scenic South Canterbury and established in 2006, our Studholme site specialises in producing milk powders, including standard and high heat whole milk powders, buttermilk powder and whey protein concentrate powder. We have recently completed constructing additional capacity which has expanded our site’s capabilities into advanced proteins.

About the Opportunity | Mō tēnei tūranga
We have a rare opportunity to join our team as an Energy Centre Operator / Utilities Engineer, working across a diverse range of critical assets. These include a fully automated 15MW attended boiler operating at 28.5Bar, wastewater treatment plant, potable water systems, compressed air, chilled water, and other site utilities. 

You’ll play an active role in a team that is leading the way in the energy sector, delivering innovative and sustainable solutions. 

Working in sole charge of the utilities plant and reporting to the Team Leader, your key responsibilities will include: 
  • Operating energy centre equipment to meet KPI targets and consent requirements 
  • Ensuring utilities operate safely, efficiently, and reliably at all times 
  • Monitoring plant performance, identifying and reporting maintenance requirements, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives 
  • Carry out department wide maintenance activities 
  • Maintaining a strong focus on Health & Safety 

Please note that this is a 24/7 rostered shift position based on the industry standard of four days on (two days, two nights, 12 hours duration), four days off. 

Shift hours are: 

Day shift: 05:40am – 6:00pm 

Night shift: 5:40pm – 6:00am 

         
About You | Mōu
We’re looking for a proactive, mechanically or electrically qualified and competent individual who is responsive, self-driven and brings a positive attitude to their work. 

As this role involves working autonomously, you’ll be a confident problem solver able to stand behind your decisions with a strong safety mindset & the ability to self-manage. 

With exposure to industrial boiler and sitewide utilities operations, you’ll bring hands-on experience in operating plant, tackle everyday events with an owner-operator mindset, along with the ability to carry out & support maintenance activities within your competencies. 

Key skills and experience include: 

  • National Certificate in Energy and Chemical Plant (Enchem) Level 4 or equivalent (e.g. Marine Class 3) is preferred.  
  • Enchem Level 3 will be given due consideration, 
  • Mechanical or Electrical Trade background, or other applicable trades subject to consideration, 
  • Experience in utilities plant operation is advantageous, 
  • Familiarity with automated control systems (HMI’s) is preferred, 
  • Strong communication skills and ability to operate & respond to situations independently, 
  • Proven problem-solving ability and a continuous improvement mindset. 
  • Experience in working with Maintenance reporting, planning & parts systems such as SAP. 
  • Capabilities in permit to work processes, energy isolations & control of critical risk tasks is expected.

Our Values | Ngā Aura 
At Fonterra, our values of Good Together, Better Every Day, and Every Drop Counts, are for everyone – no matter your background, identify or experience. These values guide us in delivering exceptional outcomes for our farmers, customers, communities, and each other. Discover how your values align with ours by taking our Values Quiz

Our Commitment to You | Tā mātou oati 
We care for our people globally. Our comprehensive benefits support your well-being, development, and work-life balance:
  • Fair and equitable pay
  • Health and well-being programs (medical, mental health support)
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Career growth support
  • Work-life balance options (flexible/hybrid working where possible)
  • Employee recognition
  • Support for community involvement and cultural connection
To learn more, visit Fonterra Careers

A Career of Opportunities | Ngā Mahi
At Fonterra, we are inspired by purpose and guided by our principles and values. Together, we create goodness for generations and make a global impact at a local level. As part of our Co-operative, you are an everyday creator, imagining what Fonterra, dairy, and you can be here.

Join Us | Tātou Tātou
Does this sound good to you? Come join our whānau - bring your whole self, and let's solve for better together. 

You, me, us together, Tātou, tātou.

Together, we're shaping a future of inclusion | He Wāhi mō te Katoa
Inclusion is key to our Co-operative. We're building a team that reflects the diverse world we live in, believing it drives better decisions and innovation. 

We welcome applications from all backgrounds (ethnicities, genders, identities, orientations, ages, abilities, neurotypes, cultures, religions). 

Even if you don't meet every requirement listed, we encourage you to apply; we value your potential and growth. 

If you face accessibility issues or need accommodations during the process, please contact your recruiter. We ensure fair participation, allowing you to be at your best. Tātou, tātou. 

Applications close at midnight on Sunday 12th July