CNC Machinist

|Manufacturing & Trades - Fitters, Machinists & Fabricators|Hamilton

We’re recruiting for a CNC Machinist to join a well-established heavy engineering workshop the Central Bay of Plenty, known for its large-scale industrial projects, complex rebuilds, and precision refurbishments across pulp & paper, steel, plastics, hydro, and more.

You’ll work on large CNC machines, primarily heavy milling, horizontal borers, horizontal & vertical CNC lathes, and more, handling everything from one-off component rebuilds to full shutdown support. This is not push-button CNC work, it’s hands-on, skilled, and grounded in practical know-how.

The Role
Standard hours are 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday (40 hours), with consistent overtime available based on project needs. The role is primarily workshop-based, with occasional site work for shutdowns depending on your skillset.

You will:

  • Programme and operate multi-axis CNC milling machines (Fanuc, Heidenhain), horizontal and vertical CNC lathes (Siemens, Fagor controls), as well as manual machining responsibilities
  • Set up large, heavy components, this isn’t small-parts manufacturing
  • Machine a variety of metals and plastics across custom jobs
  • Use overhead cranes, rigging gear, and precision measuring equipment safely

Ideal Experience
We’re looking for experienced CNC Machinists with a background in heavy industrial work. You’ll need to be comfortable setting up and running large machines, and switching between jobs as needed.

  • Trade qualified & proven experience in CNC and manual machining
  • Strong understanding of tolerances, machine setup, heavy components, and interpreting technical drawings
  • Able to program using on-machine controls or software (e.g. Mastercam)
  • Team player with a flexible attitude; someone open to shifting machines, projects, and shift patterns dependant on the job

The Company
Based in Central Bay of Plenty, this New Zealand-owned business is a trusted name in heavy engineering, with a focus on machining, fabrication, and site services across the central and upper North Island. With decades of experience and a team of 30+ skilled tradespeople, they support major industrial clients with everything from large-scale overhauls to bespoke component manufacturing.

What’s in It for You?
The culture is grounded in safety, craftsmanship, and adaptability. Many team members have been with the company for 20+ years, and the business supports both specialists and those who enjoy variety across machines and departments.

  • Double time overtime, including weekends
  • Non-taxable tool allowance (tiered)
  • Strong, stable team of 30+ with great leadership
  • A shared commitment to doing the job right the first time
  • Staff welfare fund + active social club (fishing trips, karts, bikes, BBQs)
  • Work variety – move across machines and job types
  • Affordable lifestyle location – lower cost of living, close to lakes, trails & coast

PLEASE NOTE: We can only consider applications from people already living in New Zealand and holding valid work permits or residency.

Not your average CNC role. Not your average machine shop.
If you’re experienced, adaptable, and want hands-on, varied CNC work — we’d love to talk.

Apply now, or reach out for a confidential discussion with Bethany Craigen on +64 4 282 1563, email bethany@trs.co.nz

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Technical Recruitment Solutions has been New Zealand’s trusted recruitment specialist for industry since 1996.

All our jobs are listed at www.trs.co.nz : If this vacancy is not exactly what you are seeking, then please contact me in confidence to discuss your individual requirements.
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