Site Lead

About the organisation

Mercury is a future-oriented company focused on energy and telecommunications across Aotearoa New Zealand, with a strong emphasis on renewable generation and long-term sustainability. Its purpose is to help shape tomorrow by connecting people and places today, supporting better outcomes for communities, customers, and the country.

Role overview

This is a site-based leadership opportunity within the Hydro Operations Lead Team, responsible for the Maraetai and Waipapa Power Stations. The role centres on site ownership, with accountability for health and safety, budget oversight, maximising plant availability, and supporting Mercury’s goal of being a leading electricity generator. You will work closely with hydro leadership and wider generation leaders to share ideas, improve operations and maintenance, and drive continuous improvement.

You will also contribute to Mercury’s safety intelligence programme, where safety is treated as a core mindset rather than a checklist. The role supports the protection of people, communities, and the environment through careful decision-making and guardianship of the natural world.

Key duties

• Guide, coach, and develop a collaborative team across both direct and indirect reporting lines, with a strong focus on team wellbeing.
• Set the tone for a strong culture of care by leading health and safety, dam safety, and environmental compliance from the front.
• Take part in, or lead, detailed asset risk assessments to identify threats and put controls in place that protect site reliability and safety.
• Oversee maintenance prioritisation through the CMMS, including active management of maintenance backlogs.
• Support operational budgeting and help shape the site-based budget.
• Ensure asset management practices keep generating units reliable and available.
• Champion and prioritise project activity for the site.
• Build and maintain productive relationships with important stakeholders.

What the employer is seeking

The ideal candidate will bring a Bachelor of Engineering, NZCE Electrical or Mechanical qualification, or an equivalent background. Substantial experience in plant operations, process control, or maintenance within heavy industry is required, along with clear leadership capability and the ability to motivate a team. Strong familiarity with maintenance systems, business processes, and budget control is also important.

Benefits and workplace support

• Five additional days of leave each year under the MyDays programme.
• A one-time tax-free payment of $400 to help set up a home office.
• Discounts on electricity and telco services for Mercury customers.
• A diverse environment where individual strengths and abilities are recognised and encouraged.
• Annual salary reviews, a strong parental leave policy, and the option to buy extra leave.
• Career opportunities, facilities, and development paths within one of New Zealand’s largest multi-utility providers.
• Discounted health insurance plus free life and income cover.
• An extensive wellbeing programme, including annual check-ups of up to $100 and a confidential assistance service.
• Gender affirmation leave and supportive bereavement leave, including for the loss of a pet.

Additional information

Mercury describes itself as a learning organisation that supports ongoing development so people can grow their skills and mindset over time. The company values a workplace where varied backgrounds, experience, and capabilities strengthen the team. Candidates are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet every listed criterion, as long as the role aligns with their skills and interests.

Applications close on Friday, 10 July at 5:00pm. The employer notes that a strong candidate may be moved to interview earlier than planned. If you need accessibility or application support, contact the recruitment team by email; however, applications should not be submitted through that email address. A full position description is available on request.