Maintenance Engineer

About Apparelmaster Christchurch

Apparelmaster Christchurch operates a sizable commercial laundry facility located in Sockburn, servicing Christchurch and its neighboring areas by supplying linen and uniforms. The plant features modern, European-engineered automated equipment, including high-capacity ironers, automated folding machines, and solvent dry-cleaning systems. Seasonal fluctuations affect production volume, making reliable and efficient maintenance critical to support staff and meet client demands.

Role Overview

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Maintenance Engineer to join our continuous improvement efforts. The position focuses on preventative maintenance, ensuring equipment reliability, and facilitating upgrades across mechanical and electrical systems. This is a fully permanent role with regular Monday to Friday hours, start and finish times are flexible. Some overtime or weekend work might be necessary to keep operations running smoothly. During summer, working through statutory holidays is considered essential. Competitive pay will be offered to suitable candidates.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the reliability and upkeep of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and steam plant systems.
• Perform scheduled preventative maintenance and routine inspections.
• Maintain and repair major equipment such as large commercial ironers (double-roll king-size), 180 kg dry-cleaning machines, automated folding machines for towels and garments, boilers, and steam distribution systems.
• Detect and report irregular equipment performance for maintenance scheduling.
• Troubleshoot malfunctions and conduct repairs to reduce downtime.
• Work with PLCs, sensors, and HMIs by performing basic fault-finding, managing machine settings, and monitoring sensors like temperature, pressure, proximity, and pneumatic valves.
• Use an online maintenance system (MEX) to document tasks, plan upcoming jobs, and manage parts inventory.
• Participate in upcoming major expansion projects.
• Collaborate effectively with contractors, suppliers, and the engineering team.
• Receive training on industry-specific machinery.

Required Skills and Experience

• Trade certification in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or an equivalent qualification.
• At least 3 years of experience in maintenance engineering.
• Proficient mechanical skills involving industrial machinery, steam systems, boilers, pneumatics, and automated equipment.
• Basic electrical knowledge with certified electrical work handled by contractors.
• Ability to read and interpret technical schematics and documents.
• Good understanding of PLCs, HMIs, and related sensors (basic programming not necessary).
• Welding skills are advantageous.
• Experience with fitting, fabrication, and workshop organization.
• Capable of prioritizing tasks according to urgency and importance, balancing deferred, essential, and operator maintenance.
• Competent in basic lathe and milling operations.
• On-the-job training available for some skills.
• Dedicated to maintaining safety standards and working practices.

Personal Attributes

• Clear and open communicator who listens well.
• Team player who contributes to collective objectives.
• Confident working independently when required.
• Positive, practical, and solution-oriented mindset.
• Quick to learn new abilities.
• Proactive in spotting issues and working collaboratively on solutions.
• Able to liaise with various contractors and external experts.
• Must be legally eligible to work in New Zealand (NZ resident or have a valid work visa).
• Residing within the Christchurch region currently.