Graduate Mechanical Engineer Program 2027 – Tiwai Point

About the role

Start your engineering career with Rio Tinto’s Graduate Mechanical Engineer Program at the New Zealand Aluminium Smelter in Tiwai Point. Over two years you will rotate through key plant areas, work alongside experienced engineers and gain hands‑on experience with large‑scale aluminium production equipment, safety systems and power infrastructure.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in the operation, maintenance and optimisation of mechanical plant assets.
• Support projects that improve reliability, safety and efficiency of equipment and processes.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.
• Participate in data collection, analysis and reporting for performance monitoring.
• Contribute to continuous‑improvement initiatives and compliance with safety standards.

Required profile

• Final year or recent graduate (≤2 years experience) with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Strong focus on electrical or power‑systems concepts.
• Commitment to safety and ability to work in a high‑hazard industrial environment.
• Willingness to relocate to Invercargill/Tiwai Point and work onsite.

Required skills

• Mechanical engineering principles.
• Electrical power‑systems knowledge.

What we offer

• Permanent position with a competitive base salary and annual incentive.
• Comprehensive medical benefits, private health insurance subsidy and family coverage.
• Share ownership plan and salary‑sacrifice options.
• Career development, education assistance and leadership training.
• Relocation assistance, generous leave entitlements and employee discounts.