Maintenance Engineer

​Be Part of an Iconic New Zealand Manufacturing Legacy — Expanding into the Future of Natural Fibres

For nearly 50 years, Rubisco (formerly NZ Natural Fibres and NZ Yarns) has been an iconic part of New Zealand's manufacturing landscape—built on deep expertise in wool spinning, technical textiles, and material innovation. Today, we're expanding that legacy into a broader natural-fibres business, integrating hemp, wool, and hybrid biocomposites across apparel, interiors, and the built environment. This next chapter focuses on growth within New Zealand, working alongside our partner brands to build a platform that connects our local manufacturing excellence to global opportunity.

As a Maintenance Engineer, you'll be part of this transformation—supporting expansion projects, commissioning new equipment, and ensuring our production runs smoothly as Rubisco continues to scale its innovation in natural materials.

Why Choose Rubisco?

Rubisco is at the forefront of re-imagining how the world uses natural materials. From what we wear to how we build, we're pioneering a shift toward sustainable, high-performance fibres that meet industrial and environmental needs.

We're more than a company—we're a purpose-driven team united by the belief that beautiful materials can create a beautiful world. At Rubisco, you'll join an organisation where your work contributes directly to a cleaner, more resilient future.

What sets us apart:

• Legacy and Growth: Join a company with nearly five decades of manufacturing excellence, now expanding into the next generation of natural fibres.
• Innovation at Our Core: Work with cutting-edge processes and machinery shaping the materials of tomorrow.
• Purpose-Driven Mission: Be part of a movement that's redefining sustainable manufacturing from the ground up.

Your Role in Our Mission

As our Maintenance Engineer, you'll help ensure our operations run efficiently and safely while directly contributing to Rubisco's ongoing expansion.

• Diagnosing and repairing machine and plant breakdowns to minimise downtime.
• Undertaking planned and preventative maintenance across key plant systems.
• Supporting installation and commissioning of new machinery and upgrades.
• Manufacturing or fabricating spare parts in the workshop where required.
• Completing maintenance records and compliance documentation accurately.
• Working within a rotating shift pattern (2 weeks day shift 7 am–3 pm, 1 week afternoon shift 2 pm–10 pm).
• Upholding high standards of health, safety, and environmental performance.

What We're Looking For

We're seeking a practical, solutions-focused engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, purpose-driven manufacturing environment.

• Proven experience in industrial or manufacturing maintenance.
• Strong mechanical aptitude; electrical experience is a bonus.
• A proactive approach to safety, maintenance, and problem-solving.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts as part of a close-knit, supportive team.

Why You'll Like Working with Us

• Be Part of Expansion Projects: Help implement new technologies and plant systems as Rubisco evolves.
• Grow with Purpose: Develop new skills and career pathways within a company scaling innovation across fibre sectors.
• Join a Team of Innovators: Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and makers passionate about reshaping the future of natural materials.

Ready to Join Us?

If you're ready to bring your engineering expertise to a company that combines nearly 50 years of manufacturing excellence with a bold vision for the future of natural fibres—Rubisco is where you'll make it happen.

Apply now with your cover letter and CV.

Pre-employment includes a medical, drug test, and criminal-history check.

Together, let's power the next generation of natural-fibre manufacturing and build a cleaner, more resilient future.