Engineering & Processing Lead - Hop Operations

Eggers Hops Ltd is a premium New Zealand hop grower and exporter, supplying leading craft brewers around the world through direct, long-term partnerships.

We maintain full control of our supply chain - encompassing cultivation, harvesting, kilning, pelletising, packaging, distribution, sales, and customer support - to ensure exceptional quality and consistency.

As our international brand expands we are now seeking a highly capable, mechanically proficient individual to assume responsibility for all engineering and fitting functions, as well as the day-to-day operation of our hop-processing facility. The role is presently filled by Mike Eggers - age 76 - it's time!

If you enjoy hands-on work, practical problem-solving, and operating specialised machinery, this is a unique opportunity to join a fast-growing horticultural industry.

About the Role

A varied, hands-on role responsible for maintaining our machinery and running the processing systems that turn freshly harvested hops into premium finished product. During the March harvest period, you will be required to be on call and available for extended hours for approximately three weeks.

Key Responsibilities

• Mechanical maintenance, fitting, repairs, and upgrades across the farm
• Troubleshooting faults on engines, gearboxes, pumps, conveyors, and processing equipment
• Operating and maintaining the hop-harvesting and processing line (conveyors, kiln, heaters, VSD fans, hammer mill, pelleting machinery, packaging systems)
• Leading breakdown response and keeping machinery running during the busy March harvest
• Welding, fabrication, workshop organisation, and spare parts management
• Supporting irrigation systems, pumps, and basic plumbing systems
• Assisting with general garden tasks when needed, including machinery operation.

About You You’ll be someone who is practical, reliable, and confident working independently with machinery. We’re looking for:

• Trade-qualified fitter/engineer OR strong hands-on mechanical experience
• Good diagnostic skills with a focus on solutions
• Experience with industrial, agricultural, or processing machinery
• Ability to hustle and work under pressure during a short, intense harvest window
• Strong communication skills and the ability to lead and coordinate staff effectively during harvest
• Someone with agility and physically capable with a good attitude and pride in their work
• An interest in quality hops and craft beer, with the people skills to engage effectively with craft brewers Agriculture/horticulture or food-processing experience is a bonus, but full hop-specific training is provided.

What We Offer

• A stable, long-term role in a respected New Zealand hop business
• Competitive pay reflective of your experience and skill
• Full training and handover from our senior operator/mechanic/engineer
• Autonomy, variety, and meaningful responsibility
• The opportunity to be part of an exciting organisational transition as we adapt and invest to take Eggers Hops to the next level of quality, efficiency, and global supply
• A supportive, family-run team with deep knowledge and experience to share

Check us out on IG @eggershops

Apply Now

Send your CV and a brief introduction to admin@eggershops.com If you’d prefer to discuss the role first, email us your contact number and we’ll arrange a call-back.