Description
Summary:
Design, implement, and optimize automation and data acquisition systems for critical infrastructure, focusing on PLC, SCADA, HMI, and telemetry.
Highlights:
1. Hands-on and varied role with full lifecycle involvement in automation systems
2. Focus on robust, future-focused automation solutions
3. Collaborative and self-starting approach with a focus on continuous improvement
This is a full-time position of 40 hours per week based in Petone.
Participate in a callout roster with a frequency of around one in eight weeks. A company vehicle is included for business use only.
Remuneration is dependent on skills and experience.
The opportunity
As an Automation Engineer, you will design, implement, maintain and optimise automation and data acquisition systems that underpin Wellington Water's critical infrastructure. This includes working across PLC, SCADA, HMI, and telemetry systems to ensure safe, reliable, and compliant water, wastewater, and stormwater services.
You'll be involved in the full lifecycle of automation systems - from design and project delivery through to commissioning, maintenance and continuous improvement. The role also includes troubleshooting and responding to incidents, supporting system integration, and ensuring high-quality real-time data flows across operational platforms.
This is a hands-on and varied role where you'll work closely with operational teams, contractors and stakeholders to deliver robust, future-focused automation solutions that protect public health and the environment. You will visit many sites across the Wellington region, ranging from small roadside control cabinets to large industrial treatment plants.
About you
To be successful in this role, you will bring a strong mix of technical expertise, problem-solving ability and a proactive mindset.
You will have:
A Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics, Process Engineering or a related field (or equivalent experience), along with a current NZ driver's licence
Around five or more years' experience working with industrial automation systems, including PLC, SCADA, HMI and telemetry platforms
Proven experience delivering automation projects within complex industrial or process environments
In addition, you will demonstrate:
* Strong programming and configuration skills across control systems, including developing functional design specifications and system documentation
* Solid understanding of engineering principles, control systems, and industrial networks
* Experience with system integration, data collection (historian systems), and interface validation
* The ability to troubleshoot complex issues and respond effectively to incidents and system failures
* Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly to a range of stakeholders
* A collaborative, self-starting approach with a focus on continuous improvement, safety and high performance
* Experience in water or wastewater treatment is advantageous but not essential
Benefits
At Wellington Water, our purpose extends beyond delivering great water services for the region; we foster a thriving community, support a diverse workforce, and offer supportive development opportunities. We genuinely care about your safety and wellbeing.
Our benefits include:
* Flexible working arrangements, including up to two days working from home
* Comprehensive wellbeing programme, including one paid wellbeing day annually
* Formal and informal professional development opportunities
* Five weeks of annual leave accrual will be available following two years of continual service
For a full list of our employee benefits, click here.
About us
Wellington Water is the professional water services provider across Greater Wellington and South Wairarapa. Our job is to provide safe and healthy drinking water, collect and treat wastewater, and ensure the stormwater network is well managed. We're a multi-council-owned entity, tasked with managing the infrastructure and delivering water services to our communities.
The value of water (a precious taonga) sits at our organisational heart. Our people are passionate about providing water services for our communities and environment, which is reflected in our values: Tangata Tiaki, Whanau and Mana.
Applications close on Tuesday, 28 April 2026.
How to apply
To view a copy of the position description, click here.
To apply for the role, click on the 'apply' button or visit the Wellington Water careers site. Please note that if you are a Wellington Water employee, please apply using your work email.
For further information, email: JoinUs@wellingtonwater.co.nz
Applicants for safety-sensitive roles will be required to undergo drug and alcohol testing prior to commencing employment with Wellington Water. You must also be legally entitled to work long-term in New Zealand or eligible to obtain a working visa.