Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Technician

Company overview

Meridian is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest renewable electricity generator, harnessing wind, water and solar energy to power homes, farms and businesses nationwide through its Meridian and Powershop brands.

About the role

This is a Twizel-based PLC Technician position supporting hydro, wind, BESS and solar generation assets across New Zealand. The work is very hands-on and includes fault diagnosis, repairs, minor changes, hardware upgrades and commissioning support, often carried out directly on site across the generation fleet.

The role suits someone with current New Zealand electrical registration and hands-on experience with Rockwell Automation PLC systems. You will be involved in practical troubleshooting, field-based problem solving and supporting Meridian’s expanding automation work.

What you will do

• Investigate PLC faults and resolve issues either on site or through remote support.
• Assist maintenance teams during outages, testing activities and site modification work.
• Keep PLC-related documentation, modification records and standards up to date.
• Ensure all new and altered physical and software installations comply with Meridian Energy standards.
• Provide PLC assistance for both small and large projects across hydro and wind sites.

What you will bring

You should be comfortable working with Rockwell Automation PLC equipment, especially PLC5 and ControlLogix, and be able to diagnose problems in automation systems and OT networks. You will also need to work effectively with people from different technical backgrounds and explain technical issues clearly to non-specialists.

Meridian is looking for someone with current New Zealand electrical registration, practical experience in PLC logic and hardware testing, and confidence in root-cause fault finding. Knowledge of hydro generation equipment would be an advantage, but it is not essential. The role is based in Twizel, so you should be ready to live there and travel as required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reviewed each year, plus performance incentives and partner discounts.
• Southern Cross Healthcare Wellbeing One insurance for eligible employees.
• Enhanced leave options, including three company-paid days over the holiday period, improved parental leave and the ability to purchase up to 12 extra days of leave.
• Life, trauma and income protection cover.
• Higher KiwiSaver contributions.
• Access to the Meridian employee share scheme.
• Strong learning and development support.
• Wellbeing programme with wide-ranging support.
• Discounts on Meridian electricity.
• A one-off $400 payment for home office setup, where needed.

Why Meridian

Meridian promotes a flexible, inclusive and supportive workplace with a strong focus on career growth, sustainability and doing the right thing. The organisation encourages people from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, diverse health needs and neurodiverse individuals, to apply. Its culture is built around being brave, working together and acting with integrity.

Additional information

Applications close on Thursday 28 May. If you have questions or need support with the recruitment process, you can contact the employer directly for assistance.

The company also notes that a full PLC Technician job description is available.