Mechanical Maintenance Team Leader

The NZ Sugar Company stands tall amongst New Zealand's top 100 companies and holds a significant spot within the global agri-business giant, Wilmar International.

Established in 1884, this is an iconic Kiwi business and home to Chelsea, one of New Zealand's most loved brands. They have a true expertise and passion for their products, producing the best sugars that are kiwi-made.

At the heart of their business are its people. They are proud of their culture, fostering an environment where their people can thrive and make a meaningful impact every single day.

**The Opportunity**

We are currently seeking a **Mechanical Maintenance Team Leader** to join our large and busy Operations team at Chelsea**.**

This role is vital in ensuring the reliable, cost-effective execution of all maintenance activities while maintaining a strong focus on customer needs and achieving our operational goals.

Reporting to Reliability Maintenance Manager, the Mechanical Maintenance Team Leader will be responsible for leading the team of 6 to ensure the safe and efficient completion of work orders, optimizing systems and processes, and driving continuous improvement. A key focus will be on meeting Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality (SHEQ) standards, improving operational efficiency, and maintaining effective cost management.

**The primary responsibilities for this role include**:

- Support the reliable operation of the Refinery.
- Work flexibly and adaptably to ensure customer needs for maintenance and repairs are met efficiently and effectively
- Conduct maintenance and repair activities with consideration to minimising cost and maximising value.
- Support the Refinery's achievement of operational cost targets through reduction in downtime and energy and water use.
- Ensure work is in accordance with best practices in Safety, Health, Environment and Food Safety, complying with internal and regulatory requirements and procedures
- Identify and capitalise on opportunities to improve reliability, performance, or safety of plant and equipment

**The successful applicant will**:

- hold a mechanical maintenance trade qualification (or equivalent), NZCE or BE.
- have broad experience in mechanical maintenance (preferably in a food, pharmaceutical or FMCG manufacturing environment).
- have proven leadership experience.
- possess strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across a diverse team
- be able to manage areas of sole responsibility while being part of a wider team
- enjoy working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and adjust priorities accordingly to meet project demands
- have excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to troubleshooting issues
- have a commitment to safety guidelines, regulations, and protocols, promoting and maintaining a culture of safety in the workplace.
- be eligible to work in New Zealand immediately.

**What's in it for you**

As well as a competitive salary, NZ Sugar is proud to offer a number of fantastic benefits, including the following:

- Company Superannuation
- Medical Insurance
- Employee Health & Wellbeing Program
- Free parking Free fully equipped gym & access to a personal trainer

Note: all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre-employment medical, including a drug & alcohol test.

**Job Details**:

- Reference #
- 50624
- Posted on
- 24 Oct 2025
- Closes on
- 07 Nov 2025 23:55
- Location(s)
- Auckland - North Shore
- Expertise
- Maintenance
- Job level(s)
- Experienced
- Work type(s)
- Permanent
- More details (document)
- Business unit
- New Zealand Sugar