Job Description

We're on the lookout for a committed and ambitious team member to join us as a Pumpstation Technician. As a vital part of our Water Operations team, you'll oversee essential operational checks, maintenance tasks, and data collection for our water assets. Your role will also involve contributing to enhancements and upgrades across these critical assets.

In this position, you'll play a key role in maintaining and operating approximately 50 wastewater pump stations, around 8 stormwater pump stations, and our wastewater treatment plant.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Operate, monitor and maintain Napier’s wastewater and stormwater pump stations using manual controls and SCADA systems.
• Carry out routine inspections, troubleshoot faults, and undertake or coordinate repairs and maintenance to keep equipment operating reliably and help prevent overflows.
• Support the operation and maintenance of the Wastewater Treatment Plant through inspections, performance monitoring and corrective actions.
• Collect, analyse and record operational data, maintain accurate maintenance records, and identify opportunities to improve performance.
• Coordinate contractors and onsite activities, ensuring inductions, permits and safety requirements are met.
• Participate in rostered standby duties and respond to alarms, after-hours callouts and wet-weather events.
• Maintain safe working practices, including confined space entry and equipment isolation procedures.
• Keep plant sites, vehicles and tools clean, safe and ready for use, and represent Council professionally when interacting with the public.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• NCEA Level 3 and a full Class 1 driver’s licence.
• At least three years’ operational experience in process plants and/or the water industry, including maintenance and fault-finding.
• At least two years’ additional hands-on experience in a related field, such as electrical, mechanical or water maintenance.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and knowledge of pumps, valves, control systems, and electrical and mechanical principles.
• Practical troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
• Computer literacy for SCADA monitoring, data entry and accurate record-keeping.
• Clear communication skills, a customer service focus, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A strong commitment to safety and quality, an understanding of safe isolation procedures, and the ability to undertake physical work, including lifting, climbing and confined space entry.

Technical training in wastewater operations or mechanical trades, a National Certificate in Wastewater Treatment (Level 4), and current First Aid, Confined Space Entry or Working at Heights training would be an advantage. A willingness to gain relevant wastewater operations certifications is also desirable.

Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer

• 5 weeks' annual leave after 2 years service
• Discounted health insurance work scheme + Eye test subsidy
• Retailer discounts + study assistance + Birthday vouchers
• Employee Assistance Program (OCP)
• Quarterly values awards + Social club
• Free flu vaccinations (annual)
• Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka
• Te Reo Māori language classes

This is a permanent, full-time role working 42.5 hours per week, Monday-Friday. You’ll be based out of Napier City Council’s operational depot in Onekawa.

The hourly rate for this role is between $30.46 - $32.40, (plus KiwiSaver if eligible), with the final offer depending on your skills and experience.

We will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!

Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.

Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including criminal background checks, with some roles requiring health screening and drug & alcohol testing). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.

Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description

Job Description – Pump Station Technician