The role

See more about the role below, including the responsibilities and skills we are looking for.



Engineering Manager - Otago

Milton, New Zealand

Reference: 6832385

Lead the future of a high-performing sawmilling site in Milburn
Shape reliability, drive improvement and enjoy an unbeatable lifestyle in Otago.

Are you a forward-thinking engineering leader who wants to leave your mark on a high-risk industrial site and still have a life outside work? This could be your next move.

The Perks

  • A role where you can genuinely make a difference to safety, reliability and performance
  • A supportive environment built on open communication and teamwork
  • Wellbeing programme
  • Discounted petrol
  • Free life insurance for you, discounted for your partner
  • Subsidised medical insurance for you and your family
  • Employee Assistance Programme

Why this role?

As our Engineering Manager, you'll lead a skilled site-based team and own the engineering strategy across our modern Otago sawmilling facility. You'll drive maintenance, reliability and continuous improvement to keep the plant running at peak performance while enjoying the lifestyle, space and community that Milburn and the wider Otago region are famous for.

What you'll do

  • Lead and develop engineers and technicians, building a proactive, safety-first culture
  • Use CM/PM systems to drive preventative maintenance and timely repairs to reduce downtime
  • Provide integrated engineering support across Sawmill, Drymill and Kilns
  • Oversee Capex projects and manage engineering budgets
  • Champion continuous improvement to lift reliability and reduce operational risk

About you

You're a hands-on, collaborative leader who engages and empowers others, brings strong technical credibility and thrives in a high-risk industrial environment. You combine a passion for reliability with a practical, solution-focused mindset.

You'll also bring:

  • Demonstrated leadership or managerial experience in an industrial or manufacturing setting
  • A strong commitment to health and safety excellence
  • At least 5 years' experience in plant maintenance and reliability, using asset management systems (SAP or similar an advantage)
  • Sound judgement and a pragmatic, can-do, team-oriented approach to problem solving
  • A tertiary qualification in Engineering (or a related discipline)
  • Limited Electrical Licence (EST) and/or Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) - advantageous
  • Strong planning and organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise, multitask and meet deadlines
  • Working knowledge of PLC and DCS control systems

About the site and lifestyle

Our Otago site is located in Milburn, just 35 minutes south of Dunedin and 20 minutes north of Balclutha. It's a modern, high-performing sawmilling facility comprising Sawmill, Drymill and Kilns operations, producing kiln-dried, appearance-grade lumber for domestic and export markets.

We're part of a globally recognised organisation, with the backing and resources of a large international group, while maintaining the close-knit, supportive feel of a local team. The mill is small but punches well above its weight - driven by innovation, teamwork and a clear vision for the future.

Milburn and the wider Otago region offer:

  • Stunning natural surroundings and outdoor adventure on your doorstep
  • A relaxed, family-friendly lifestyle with a strong sense of community
  • More space, more value for your money and an easy commute

If you're ready to step into a pivotal site leadership role, drive engineering excellence and enjoy an enviable Otago lifestyle, we'd love to hear from you.


Applications Close: 28 Nov 2025