Reliability Technician

About the role

This position is suited to a reliability professional who can help lift equipment uptime, improve asset lifespan, and strengthen maintenance decisions through cost-effective strategies. The emphasis is on getting to the cause of failures, not just finding symptoms, and then turning those findings into durable improvements.

You will work with advanced condition monitoring methods, disciplined troubleshooting, and practical engineering judgement to improve plant performance and support smarter maintenance planning.

The roster follows a 4 days on, 3 days off pattern, offering consistency, variety, and a solid balance between work and personal time within a manufacturing setting where reliability is essential.

Key responsibilities

• Carry out condition monitoring work using vibration analysis, thermography, ultrasonic testing, and oil analysis.
• Inspect plant and equipment routinely to catch developing faults and early signs of failure.
• Gather, organise, and interpret monitoring data to spot patterns, unusual readings, and improvement opportunities.
• Investigate equipment issues and identify underlying causes using structured problem-solving approaches.
• Assist with precision maintenance practices such as alignment, balancing, and lubrication enhancements.
• Build and maintain lubrication and oil analysis systems and routines.
• Prepare clear reports and recommendations to guide maintenance planning and asset management choices.
• Partner with maintenance teams to ensure identified defects are resolved effectively.
• Help maintain a safe workplace by proactively highlighting equipment-related hazards and risks.

About you

You should bring solid experience in reliability or maintenance work, along with a strong interest in improving asset performance and operational excellence.

• At least 5 years of experience in reliability, maintenance, or asset care within dairy, food manufacturing, or a comparable industrial environment.
• Hands-on experience with vibration analysis, preferably CAT 2 level, plus thermography, ultrasonic monitoring, and oil analysis.
• Good understanding of preventive and predictive maintenance methods.
• Experience using Reliability Centred Maintenance (RCM) and CRMP approaches.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and manage lubrication and oil analysis programmes.
• Working knowledge of food safety requirements and HACCP systems.
• A mechanical or electrical trade qualification would be an advantage.

About Synlait

Synlait is a purpose-led dairy and nutrition business focused on making milk differently for a healthier world. The company is built on a practical, down-to-earth culture that is guided by three core values.

Be The Difference reflects a mindset of asking why, staying curious, supporting one another, and looking for better ways to add value.

We Move as One means working with trust, respect, and collaboration across teams to create innovative solutions and new opportunities.

Right on the Mark captures the focus on accountability, courage, and doing what matters most, especially because the business serves some of the world’s most vulnerable consumers.

The workplace is inclusive and values diverse perspectives, with support for learning, growth, and contribution.

What is offered

• Health insurance cover, along with access to partner brand discounts and benefits.
• Strong parental leave support through the Matua policy.
• B Corp certified organisation.
• Social club membership opportunities.

Application notes

Applicants should submit a current CV together with a cover letter outlining their capabilities and the value they can add to Synlait. Applications may be reviewed as they come in, so the role could be closed earlier than expected.

Only candidates who have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand will be considered if they are applying from outside the country.