Automation Engineer | Industrial Control Systems

About Us

Core Automation is the automation division of Switchbuild Ltd, a New Zealand-based system integrator and switchboard manufacturer. We design, build and commission industrial automation solutions for critical infrastructure and manufacturing clients across New Zealand.

Our projects span water and wastewater treatment, pumping stations, telemetry networks, industrial control systems, manufacturing facilities and infrastructure projects. We pride ourselves on delivering practical, reliable solutions backed by strong technical expertise and great customer support.

Role Overview

We're looking for an Automation Engineer to join our growing team. This role is ideal for someone with several years of automation experience who wants to further develop their skills in telemetry, SCADA, PLCs and industrial communications.

You will work alongside experienced automation engineers on a variety of projects, supporting the design, configuration, commissioning and maintenance of control systems and telemetry networks. The role includes a mix of office-based engineering, site commissioning, troubleshooting and customer support.

Some travel is required throughout New Zealand for commissioning and client support.

Key Responsibilities

• Configure, test and commission telemetry, RTU and SCADA systems.
• Assist with PLC programming, modifications and system integration.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial communications including radio, cellular, Ethernet and VPN networks.
• Support the delivery of water, wastewater, infrastructure and industrial automation projects.
• Investigate and resolve faults across control systems, telemetry equipment and field devices.
• Prepare project documentation including commissioning records, test sheets and as-built updates.
• Work closely with customers to understand operational requirements and provide practical solutions.
• Support site commissioning activities and operator handovers.
• Collaborate with automation, electrical and switchboard teams to deliver successful project outcomes.
• Contribute to the ongoing improvement of engineering standards, templates and reusable system components.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Minimum 3 years' experience in industrial automation, controls, telemetry or SCADA systems.
• Practical experience with PLC, SCADA or HMI systems.
• Strong troubleshooting and fault-finding skills.
• Understanding of industrial networking and communications.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing to a team environment.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• A current NZ Driver Licence.
• NZ residency or valid work visa.

Highly Desirable

• Experience with telemetry and RTU platforms such as Kingfisher, SCADAPack, QTech, Swampfox or similar.
• Experience with SCADA platforms such as AVEVA System Platform, InTouch, Plant SCADA, Ignition or iFIX.
• Experience with water, wastewater or infrastructure projects.
• Understanding of cellular, radio and IP-based communication systems.
• Exposure to industrial control panels and electrical systems.
• PLC experience with platforms such as Rockwell, Schneider, Siemens or Omron.

Bonus Skills

• SQL databases and reporting tools.
• Software development experience in C# or .NET.
• Electrical Service Technician or Electrical Registration.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package based on experience.
• Choice of base location: Dunedin or Christchurch.
• Diverse and technically interesting projects across New Zealand.
• Exposure to modern telemetry, SCADA and industrial communication technologies.
• Ongoing training and mentoring from experienced automation engineers.
• Clear opportunities to grow into senior technical and project delivery roles.
• Supportive team culture with a practical, hands-on approach to engineering.