Project Engineer

Position Title: Project Engineer 

Position Type: Regular - Full-Time ​

Requisition ID: 42535 

In every role, McCainers are ambitious, curious, and passionate about creating exceptional work experiences - together. With a customer-first mindset, we make doing business with McCain easy.

About the role.

Are you ready to lead the transformation of cutting-edge food processing technology? We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Project Engineer for our Timaru Coated Fryer & Batter System installation—a major capital project set to revolutionize our production capabilities. In this fixed-term role, you will play a pivotal part in planning, executing, and delivering new fryer and batter processing lines. Your expertise will ensure the seamless installation, commissioning, and handover of state-of-the-art equipment, meeting all technical, safety, and operational benchmarks—on schedule, within budget, and to uncompromising quality standards. Join us and make a tangible impact on the future of food manufacturing.

What you’ll be doing.

• Lead portions of engineering delivery for the fryer and batter system project, ensuring successful design, commissioning, and handover.


• Manage project scope, budget, schedule, and risk, with a focus on food and contractor safety.


• Collaborate with stakeholders to define requirements and integrate new systems into production.


• Coordinate with equipment vendors, contractors, and consultants on design, procurement, and installation.


• Oversee technical validation, compliance, and accurate project documentation.


• Monitor and report on project milestones, costs, and risks throughout the lifecycle.


• Ensure accurate goods receipt forecasting and support system commissioning, performance testing, and operator training.


• Document lessons learned for effective handover and promote teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

What you’ll need to be successful.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or related).


• 3–5 years’ relevant experience in FMCG or food manufacturing environments; McCain Foods Ltd experience preferred.


• Solid understanding of thermal engineering, oil heating systems, and energy efficiency principles.


• Proficient in oil management, safety controls, and fire protection measures for hot oil systems.


• Experience with process engineering, batter/coating application, and viscosity control.


• Demonstrated expertise in hygienic design and cleaning systems (CIP), in compliance with NZ food safety regulations.


• Skilled in integrating factory utilities: steam, gas, compressed air, chilled water, and wastewater.


• Proven track record managing capital equipment installations, particularly thermal or coating processes.


• Strong contractor management, stakeholder engagement, and vendor negotiation abilities.


• Capable of managing safety-critical projects, high-risk installations, and budgets.


• Proficient in project management software and AutoCAD.


• Results-oriented with strong initiative, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.

About the team.

You’ll be joining a high-performing and collaborative team that prides itself on delivering results while maintaining a supportive and enjoyable work environment. We work hard, tackle challenges together, and make sure to have fun along the way.

About McCain.

Click Here to learn more about McCain and how we provide you with opportunities to make an impact that matters.

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*We've got this covered! No external agency support required at this time and unsolicited CVs will not be considered.

McCain Foods is an equal opportunity employer. As a global family-owned company, we strive to be the employer of choice in the diverse communities around the world in which we live and work. We recognize that inclusion drives our creativity, resilience, and success and makes our business stronger. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

McCain is an accessible employer. If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials or accessible meeting rooms), please let us know  and we will work with you to find appropriate solutions. 

Your privacy is important to us. By submitting personal data or information to us, you agree this will be handled in accordance with McCain’s Global Privacy Policy and Global Employee Privacy Policy, as applicable. McCain leverages AI in the hiring process, though all final decisions are made by humans. You can understand our approach to AI and how your personal information is being handled here. 

Job Family: Engineering & Technical      
Division: ANZ 
Department: ​Timaru Potato Plant ​
Location(s): NZ - New Zealand : Canterbury : Timaru 

Company: McCain Foods (NZ) Limited