PLC Technician – Hydro, Wind & Solar Assets

About the role

Meridian Energy is seeking a PLC Technician based in Twizel to support its hydro, wind, battery storage (BESS) and solar generation assets across New Zealand. The role is hands‑on, involving on‑site fault diagnosis, repairs, minor modifications, hardware upgrades and commissioning support for a diverse fleet of renewable energy plants.

Key responsibilities

• Diagnose and repair PLC faults on site or remotely.
• Assist maintenance teams during outages, modifications and testing activities.
• Update and maintain documentation for PLC changes and standards.
• Ensure all new or modified hardware and software comply with Meridian Energy standards.
• Provide PLC support for minor and major projects across hydro and wind assets.

Required profile

• Current New Zealand electrical registration.
• Experience with Rockwell Automation PLC equipment, especially PLC5 and ControlLogix.
• Proven ability in fault finding, root‑cause investigation and modification of automation installations and OT networks.
• Capability to work with cross‑disciplinary teams and explain technical issues to non‑technical stakeholders.
• Willingness to live in and travel around Twizel.

Required skills

• Rockwell Automation PLC (PLC5, ControlLogix).
• Electrical registration (NZ).
• Fault finding and root‑cause analysis.
• Automation hardware modification.
• OT network configuration.
• PLC logic programming and hardware testing.

What we offer

• Flexible work options to support work‑life balance.
• Competitive salary package reviewed annually with performance incentives.
• Discounts from partner organisations and wellbeing schemes.
• Enhanced leave provisions, including extra paid days and parental leave.
• Life, trauma and income protection insurance.