Mechanical Engineering Technician

Job Title: Mechanical Engineering Technician

Location: Somerville, VIC, 3912

Full-Time: Immediate start

Reports to: Manager

Salary range: $79,500 - $90,000 – excluding super.

Job Closure date: 30 days

About the Role

Our client, a leader in fresh food processing with a 50-year history, operates a state-of-the-art facility in Somerville. They are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineering Technician to join their team. In this hands-on leadership role, you will ensure the reliability and performance of advanced automated equipment across their wash-lines and pack-sheds.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical installations for new processing and packaging assets, from wash tanks and slicers to weighers and flow-wrappers, ensuring compliance with safety and hygienic design standards.

• Develop and execute preventative maintenance plans using CMMS, applying predictive techniques like vibration analysis to maximise equipment uptime.

• Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic faults on high-speed lines, performing root-cause analysis to prevent recurrence.

• Drive continuous improvement by drafting design modifications in CAD, upgrading drives, and conducting OEE studies to boost line efficiency.

• Champion safety by conducting risk assessments, authoring SWMS, and ensuring all work meets WHS, HACCP, and food-grade standards.

• Mentor apprentices and technicians, coordinate contractor activities, and collaborate with production and quality teams to meet operational targets.

Skills & Experience Required

• Diploma of Engineering (Mechanical) or equivalent (AQF 6).

• Minimum 1 years' experience in high-speed food or FMCG processing, with experience in a senior capacity.

• Proven expertise with conveyors, pneumatics, hydraulics, pumps, gearboxes, and servo-drives.

• Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks/AutoCAD) and CMMS software.

• Strong knowledge of WHS, HACCP, GMP, and hygienic design principles.

• Current High-Risk Work Licence (LF), confined space, and working-at-heights certificates.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience with optical sorting, ultrasonic sealing, or ammonia refrigeration.

• PLC/HMI fault-finding skills (Allen-Bradley/Siemens).

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt.

Why Apply?

• Senior role in a sophisticated, automated food production environment.

• Clear career pathway to Supervisor or Project Engineer roles.

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience.

Please note: We are managing this recruitment on behalf of our client. All applications will be treated confidentially.