Project Group Lead - Mechanical

At Oji Fibre Solutions – Forest Resources (Kinleith Mill), our manufacturing operation is committed to the efficient and complete use of sustainably sourced virgin wood-fibre from renewable forestry resources.  We take pride in producing world-class market kraft pulps, which are used in a wide range of boards and specialty products around the world.

About the role:

We are seeking an experienced mechanical engineering leader to join the Engineering team at Kinleith Mill. This is a senior, hands-on leadership role for someone who can guide people, provide credible technical authority and lead complex projects in a brownfield manufacturing environment.

Reporting to the Engineering Manager you will lead a team of engineers and technical specialists.  Delivering mechanical projects from concept and front-end development through execution, commissioning and close-out. You will also assist Production, Maintenance and Process Safety teams to solve plant and process challenges with practical, lifecycle-focused engineering solutions.

This role offers the opportunity to influence site-wide engineering outcomes, develop the next generation of technical leaders and deliver projects that support safe, reliable and sustainable operations.

What you will do:

• Support the safe delivery of capital and non-routine maintenance projects across Kinleith Mill.
• Own project scope, planning, schedule, budget, forecasting, resourcing and delivery performance.
• Act as a senior mechanical engineering authority, providing sound technical judgement and recommendations.
• Identify plant, process and engineering problems, then develop and progress fit-for-purpose solutions.
• Coordinate operational stakeholders, engineering consultants, suppliers and contractors.
• Mentor engineers and graduates, review technical work and build a strong succession pipeline.
• Support annual project budget development and provide clear cost, milestone and risk updates.
• Drive reliability, innovation, standardisation and whole-of-life value across project outcomes.
• Ensure work complies with engineering standards and health, safety and environmental requirements.

What you will bring:

As a respected engineering leader, you are practical, trusted and decisive. You can move comfortably between a technical review, a project forecast and a coaching conversation. You bring structure to complexity, communicate openly and follow through on commitments. Most importantly, you set a visible safety standard and help others deliver their best work.

• A tertiary qualification in Mechanical Engineering.
• At least 10 years of engineering experience in a major process industry such as pulp and paper, petrochemical, mining, metals or comparable heavy manufacturing.
• Proven leadership of engineering projects, people and multidisciplinary delivery teams.
• Strong knowledge of relevant engineering codes, standards, legislation and industry good practice.
• Experience in contract negotiation or administration, project budgeting, forecasting and cost control.
• The ability to work confidently in an operating brownfield environment and balance risk, production needs and project outcomes.
• Excellent stakeholder communication, coaching and mentoring skills.
• Working knowledge of HAZOP processes and New Zealand health and safety legislation.
• Pulp and paper operational knowledge is advantageous, but not essential.

 Benefits on offer:

• Competitive salary package
• Enhanced superannuation
• Regular Care Southern Cross medical insurance
• Income protection, permanent disability, and life insurance
• Free onsite Annual Health Checks
• Supportive, experienced and committed Team
• Development opportunities

How to apply

If this role sounds like your next move, click APPLY, follow the prompts to complete an application form and attach your up-to-date covering letter and CV. Closing date Saturday 26^th September 2026.

In accordance with Company policy, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a pre-employment medical examination, drug test and Ministry of Justice criminal history and right to work in New Zealand check.  Oji Fibre Solutions will meet these expenses.

Applicants must be either a NZ Citizen, Resident Visa holder or have the legal right to work in New Zealand.

We are actively looking to fill this role and encourage your early application. Applications are reviewed regularly, and we reserve the right to remove the advertisement before the advertised closing date.

Research shows that females and minority groups don’t always apply for roles unless they match 100% of the requirements. So, if this role is of interest but you feel you don’t quite fit, we encourage you to apply anyway. We are enriched by many nationalities, languages, religions, customs, and lifestyles. We are proud of our diversity and see it as one of the things that make us better together.

Position description Apply now

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