Apprentice – Maintenance Engineer

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An Apprentice Maintenance Engineer role at Pact Group's East Tamaki site offers on the job training with the Maintenance Manager to become a qualified engineer. You will support preventive and reactive maintenance, gain skills in hydraulic and pneumatic systems, welding and machining, and help improve equipment reliability. The programme provides NZQA training toward Mechanical Engineering Level 3 and eligibility for a NZ Apprenticeship. Ideal candidates have NCEA Level 2 with strengths in Math, Science or Technology, an interest in mechanical or electrical trades, and a practical safety minded mindset. To apply, tailor your CV to show projects, pre trade study, and demonstrate commitment to a multi year apprenticeship and Pact’s sustainability goals.

Company Description

Our Pact Packaging division is pioneering a whole of product life cycle approach to sustainable packaging. Partnering with global brands to local dairy producers, we integrate supply chain efficiencies and sustainable practices into everything we design and manufacture.

Job Description

About this opportunity

We are seeking an Apprentice Maintenance Engineer to join our team and work closely with our Maintenance Manager. In this hands‑on role, you’ll support the effective maintenance, repair, and continuous improvement of our plant machinery and equipment while building the technical skills and experience needed to become a fully qualified Maintenance Engineer.

As part of the maintenance team, you will learn and apply both preventative and reactive maintenance practices, contribute to equipment reliability, and help maintain high standards of safety, quality, and operational performance across the site.

Your key responsibilities will be to:

• Assist with preventative and reactive maintenance tasks to improve equipment reliability and minimise unplanned downtime.
• Support breakdown response under supervision, including basic fault diagnosis and equipment repair.
• Gain hands-on experience in machine repairs, including hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Support welding, fabrication, turning, and machining tasks as part of equipment maintenance and component repair.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across the site, including equipment optimisation, minor upgrades, and waste reduction activities.
• Actively participate in on‑the‑job learning and off‑site training required to progress toward becoming a qualified Maintenance Engineer, including maintaining accurate training records.
• Follow all WHSE procedures and participate in toolbox talks, safety checks, risk reviews, and other activities that support a zero‑harm workplace.
• Promote strong health, safety, and environmental behaviours by reporting hazards, using PPE correctly, meeting WHSE standards, and supporting compliance with systems such as FSSC22000, HACCP, and ISO14001.

Your skills and experience

To be successful in this role, you’ll have:

• NCEA Level 2 or equivalent, ideally with strengths in Math, Science, or Technology.
• Genuine interest in mechanical or electrical engineering and hands‑on practical work.
• Eligibility to enroll in a New Zealand Apprenticeship programme.
• Pre‑trade engineering study is an advantage but not required.
• Basic understanding of tools, machinery, or mechanical processes, whether gained through school, hobbies, or previous work.
• Positive problem‑solving attitude and a willingness to learn from experienced tradespeople.
• Ability to follow instructions, work safely, and ask questions when needed.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Reliable, motivated, and committed to completing a multi‑year apprenticeship.

Additional Information

• NZQA training provided for a Mechanical Engineering Level 3 qualification.
• Work for a company dedicated to sustainability and leading the circular economy.
• East Tamaki Site.

This apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to grow their engineering career in a supportive, safety‑focused manufacturing environment

How to apply:

If this role sounds like you, please click on the apply button and follow the prompts. We will get in touch if you are shortlisted for this opportunity. If you would like to learn more about our company, you may check our website: About Us | Pact Group