Project Engineer
The a2 Milk CompanyJobsCloseBy Editorial Insights
The a2 Milk Company seeks a hands-on Project Engineer in Pokeno to lead CAPEX and process-improvement initiatives across core operations, delivering projects from concept to commissioning within budget, upholding safety and quality standards. Reporting to the CAPEX and Process Improvement Manager, you will manage business cases, schedules, budgets, governance and risk while driving Lean improvements that boost plant performance. Ideal candidates have manufacturing CAPEX or CI experience, preferably in dairy or regulated FMCG, and an engineering degree with Lean or PM credentials. To apply, tailor your resume to show measurable results, cross-functional collaboration, and safety outcomes, and demonstrate your ability to balance priorities in an onsite NZ role.
General information
Short Summary
Lead CAPEX and process improvement projects that enhance manufacturing performance, safety and efficiency at our Pokeno production site.
Position Description
Our Story:
The a2 Milk Company, driven by science and a pioneering spirit, disrupted the dairy and infant milk formula industry. Our vision is to create an A1-free world where dairy nourishes all people and our planet.
The a2 Milk Company seeks to achieve this through the naturally occurring a2 Milk® difference and by bringing a more sustainable approach to dairy.
The role:
As our Project Engineer, you'll lead the delivery of CAPEX and process improvement projects that enhance manufacturing capability, improve efficiency, and support operational excellence across our Pokeno manufacturing site.
Reporting to the CAPEX & Process Improvement Manager, you'll manage projects from concept through to commissioning, partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver safe, efficient and sustainable outcomes. Working across our Powder, Blending, Canning, Utilities, Warehousing and Wastewater Treatment operations, you'll play a key role in improving plant performance while ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality and safety standards.
This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on engineer who enjoys solving complex challenges, driving continuous improvement, and seeing projects through from idea to implementation.
More specifically, you will be involved in:
- Leading medium to large-scale CAPEX projects from concept development through to commissioning and operational handover.
- Preparing business cases, project plans, budgets and timelines to ensure successful project delivery.
- Managing project governance, contractor performance, risk management and stakeholder communication.
- Identifying and implementing process improvements that increase efficiency, productivity and plant performance.
- Supporting Lean Manufacturing initiatives that improve operational excellence and reduce waste.
- Ensuring all projects meet food safety, quality, regulatory and engineering standards.
- Leading project risk assessments, safety reviews and contractor management activities.
- Supporting root cause investigations and implementing corrective actions where required.
- Maintaining technical documentation, standard operating procedures and engineering records.
About you:
You're a proactive Project Engineer with a passion for manufacturing excellence and continuous improvement. You thrive in a fast-paced production environment, enjoy working collaboratively across multiple teams, and have a proven ability to successfully deliver engineering projects from start to finish.
You will bring:
- Experience delivering CAPEX or continuous improvement projects within a manufacturing environment.
- A background in dairy, food manufacturing, FMCG or another highly regulated industry.
- Strong project management skills, including planning, budgeting, stakeholder engagement and contractor management.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
- A sound understanding of food safety, quality systems and health and safety requirements within manufacturing.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication and relationship-building skills.
- The ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a strong focus on quality and delivery.
- A tertiary qualification in Engineering or a related discipline. Project Management or Lean qualifications will be highly regarded.
Find out more about our great benefits on our Careers Page.