PLC Technician – Renewable Energy 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 fault diagnosis, repairs, minor modifications, hardware upgrades and commissioning support on‑site and remotely.

Key responsibilities

• Diagnose and repair PLC faults on generation assets, both on‑site and remotely.
• Assist maintenance teams during outages, modifications, testing and other site activities.
• Update and maintain documentation for PLC modifications and adhere to Meridian standards.
• Ensure all new or modified hardware and software installations comply with company specifications.
• Provide PLC support for minor and major projects across hydro and wind facilities.

Required profile

• Current New Zealand electrical registration.
• Strong knowledge of Rockwell Automation PLC equipment, especially PLC5 and ControlLogix.
• Proven experience in fault finding, root‑cause investigation and modification of automation hardware and OT networks.
• Ability to work with cross‑disciplinary teams and explain technical issues to non‑technical stakeholders.
• Willingness to live in or travel around Twizel.
• Knowledge of hydro‑power generating equipment is a plus.

Required skills

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

What we offer

• Flexible work options to support work‑life balance.
• Competitive salary package reviewed annually, plus performance incentives.
• Discounts through partner programmes and Southern Cross Healthcare wellbeing scheme.
• Enhanced leave provisions, including extra paid days, parental leave and the option to purchase additional leave.
• Life, trauma and income protection insurance.