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Integrity. Quality. Commitment and Innovation.
These are our values and not only what we stand by but what we stand for. We believe in empowering people. We create and deliver solutions. We give back to community. We think differently and we do it better. Our innovative spirit has driven us to continually evolve and deliver solutions to our dealers and our community and made us a business that our people are proud of and proud to work for.
Waratah NZ Limited (a John Deere Company) has proudly served the global forestry industry for more than 50 years, pioneering mechanized harvesting with first-class products of distinct quality, durability, and reliability paired with unparalleled customer support.
With John Deere, we run so life can leap forward. This powerful purpose is our promise to humankind that we will dream, design, and deliver breakthrough products that sustain our world for generations to come. And we live up to the legacy our founder forged in a one-room blacksmith's shop nearly two centuries ago by creating a culture that brings out the best in all of us. A culture where great ideas thrive because every voice is heard.
Title: PV & V Engineer - Hydraulics
Primary Location New Zealand - Tokoroa
Job Grade: 8
Hiring Manager: Phil Waterhouse
The Opportunity
Own the planning, coordinating, testing, analysis, and reporting for a complete project of moderate scope or for a significant portion or sub-system of a major and diverse project with timely completion of scheduled tests, improved test cycle times and reduced design iterations for forestry attachments. Provides technical consultation and a knowledge base. Recognized as a subject matter expert.
What you will be responsible for
- Develops and delivers robust PV&V plans/schedules and executes to meet projects following Technology Delivery Process (TDP) and Integrated System Development Process (ISDP) in support of the Enterprise Product Delivery Process (EPDP) and Module program commitments including Gate reviews.
- Approaches all tasks in a safe manner, engages with key stakeholders documenting risk assessments and developing mitigation plans to support zero OSHA recordables.
- Compiles and documents necessary information (engineering reports of pertinent design analysis data) to document the optimum design solution required for building of prototypes and adoption of the design with possible involvement of other functional engineers, supply management and or supplier personnel
- Analysis of assignments and determines engineering specifications which must be fullfilled for complex problems or projects of moderate scope.
- Leads the execution of PV&V activities in support of all program types, aligned to product programs goals.
- Leads in resolution of product-line based difficult technical issues within company or with outside suppliers by providing facts and data from testing.
- Uses fundamental engineering calculations and data analysis on critical components to ensure quality of design and reduce risk
- Delivers continuous improvements in PV&V processes and equipment’s used at Waratah NZ
- Engages other John Deere PV & V groups in order to leverage analysis and test capabilities that are not core within the Waratah facility.
- Undertakes and completes testing on site and in the forest utilizing all forms of Waratah test equipment.
The skills that you will need
Understands Hydraulic principles and best practices, component, sub-system, systems, and tools. – Performs more complex functions and may teach others.
Hands-on experience with data acquisition systems, including setup, calibration, and data analysis. – Performs more complex functions and may teach others.
Skilled in identifying and resolving root causes of technical issues. – Understands principles and may teach others.
Highly proficient in LabVIEW, with a proven track record of developing robust and efficient solutions using the platform. - Performs more complex functions and may teach others.
Education / Experience
Formal education or training required to perform the essential functions of the job. Includes degrees, certifications, licenses and/or registration requirements.
- Degree in an Engineering/Technology discipline or equivalent experience. - University Degree (4 years or equivalent)
Type and amount of experience necessary to perform the essential functions of the job. May include specific roles and/or an understanding of a particular function, organization, industry or product line.
- 4+ years of hands-on engineering experience, including practical expertise in hydraulic systems and applications.
- Participation as a team member in major engineering projects. - Yes
- Experience with engineering tools, systems and databases. – 4+ years
What will make you stand out
You will be a high-performing engineer with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality, practical outcomes. Your strong hands-on experience in designing, building, and implementing technical solutions will set you apart. You’ll be confident working across the full development lifecycle, from concept through to deployment and support.
Your exceptional written and verbal communication skills will enable you to clearly articulate complex technical results to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. You will demonstrate excellent time management, balancing multiple priorities while maintaining a high standard of work.
With an inquisitive mindset, you’ll approach challenges with curiosity and a solution-focused attitude. Your analytical thinking and problem-solving skills will be key to identifying opportunities for improvement and driving innovation in real-world applications.
Applications for this position will close at COB 15th August 2025 .
Note: Appropriate work authorisations are required in this country prior to application.
The information contained herein is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and qualifications required of individuals performing the job. The qualifications detailed in this job description are not considered the minimum requirements necessary to perform the job, but rather as guidelines.
Waratah believes in the power of diversity in the workforce and we and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Waratah. Built to Produce. Built to Last. Built to Work.