Automation Engineer - Controls & Systems at Synlait External Careers Site

Rakaia, Canterbury, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

21 Jul, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

22 Apr, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Operational technology, Automation, Process control, OT cybersecurity, Industrial networking, ICS security, Network segmentation, Firewalls, Active directory, Virtualization, Python, PowerShell, Bash, SCADA, PLC, MES

Industry

Food and Beverage Manufacturing

Description

About the role We’re on the lookout for an Automation Engineer – Systems & Controls to support and optimise our operational technology (OT) environment within a highly automated dairy manufacturing site. This role is focused on providing technical OT services across both operations and capital functions when needed. The role works closely with Automation engineers, Automation Project Engineers, Automation Controls and Systems Engineers, external and internal teams to deliver projects, including escalation. Key responsibilities of this role include.. * Support internal stakeholders in meeting operational, quality, and regulatory standards * Develop, maintain, and enforce Operational Technology (OT), Automation, and Process Control standards * Ensure OT systems align with current best‑practice hardware, software, and reporting solutions * Implement and maintain OT cybersecurity practices across the network * Manage OT asset lifecycle planning, including risk, technology, and support strategies * Provide technical problem solving to improve safety, quality, yield, cost, and environmental performance * Support continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing and plant operations * Collaborate with internal customers on asset maintenance and new technology initiatives * Identify system issues, develop procedures, and apply sound judgement to deliver effective technical solutions, including Track & Trace and recipe systems Skills and Experience The ideal candidate will have the following skills and attributes:  We welcome engineers who are experienced or earlier in their career with strong practical exposure. You’ll be proactive, technically curious and solutions-focused. * Qualification on Mechatronics, Computer Science would be ideal * Strong foundation in engineering and computer systems * Experience across IT, systems engineering, network administration, and cybersecurity * Familiarity with Operational Technology (OT), automation, and process control standards * Strong experience in OT cybersecurity and industrial networking, including ICS security principles and industry frameworks (IEC 62443, NIST 800‑82) * Proven capability in network segmentation, firewalls, DMZs, and secure remote access within industrial environments * Experience with asset discovery, vulnerability management, patching, incident response, and risk assessment * Skilled in system and infrastructure administration, including Windows and Linux environments * Hands‑on experience with networks, firewalls (e.g. Cisco, Fortinet), Active Directory, and virtualization platforms * Knowledge of backup, disaster recovery, servers, storage, databases, and historian systems * Basic scripting ability (Python, PowerShell, Bash) * Experience integrating OT systems with MES and ERP platforms * Strong documentation, configuration management, and change control skills * Basic understanding of Industrial Control Systems, including SCADA platforms and PLCs from major vendors * Familiarity with industrial networking and communication protocols used in OT environments * Knowledge of OT network design and integration, including OPC and fieldbus technologies About us – The Synlait Spirit Synlait is more than a global leader in milk nutrition – we're a purpose-led team that’s Doing Milk Differently For A Healthier World. Our Synlait Spirit guides everything we do, from how we show up each day to the impact we create together. You’ll be joining an authentic, down-to-earth team that lives the three values that underpin the Synlait Spirit. Be The Difference means we understand before we act – that means asking why, supporting each other to think differently, stay curious, and continuously look for smarter ways to deliver value. Whether it’s in the paddock, the plant or the boardroom, we’re driven by impact and inspired to make a meaningful difference every day. We Move as One by working together with respect, trust and a shared commitment to doing what’s right. We collaborate across teams to deliver innovative solutions and create opportunity for those around us. We feed the world’s most vulnerable, including newborn babies, so we have to be Right on the Mark. That means we take accountability seriously, act with courage and focus our energy on what matters most. We combine expert farming and state of the art processing to deliver high quality nutritional products to all over the world. At Synlait you’ll be challenged and supported to grow. We know everyone brings something unique to the table so we’re an inclusive workplace, where diverse perspectives fuel innovation and success. What we offer: * Health insurance cover & partnered with top brands for great benefits and discounts * Excellent parental leave with our Matua policy * B CorpTM certified * Social Club membership opportunities What's next? Apply now! Include your most recent CV and cover letter summarising your abilities and what you can bring to Synlait. We wish you the best of luck in your application. We encourage you to apply early as we will be reviewing applications regularly and may close the advertisement early. Together we will continue to create a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their best. Applicants outside of New Zealand will only be considered if you have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Responsibilities

The Automation Engineer will support and optimize the operational technology environment within a dairy manufacturing site by managing OT standards, cybersecurity, and asset lifecycles. They will also provide technical problem-solving to improve safety, quality, and operational performance while collaborating with internal and external teams on projects.