We are looking for a New Zealand based Technician with strong customer management skills to join the team and help Powerplants establish local support for growers.

About the business

Combining a drive for sustainable growth and meaningful industry development, Powerplants has moved from strength to strength over the last 30 years to become a premier Greenhouse Technology provider in Australia & New Zealand. Utilising the best local and European horticultural expertise and local manufacturing, Powerplants is focused on accessible, high-quality produce, sustainable industry growth, and the betterment of social and natural environments. Our team provides vital technical knowledge, assisting growers in protected cropping to improve their commercial outcomes and sustainable productivity.

We are looking for a New Zealand based Technician with strong customer management skills to join the team and help Powerplants establish local support for growers.

About the role

The ideal candidate will be committed to providing exceptional customer service and growing a career in the horticultural industry. As a customer-facing technical role, it is important to find someone with an established knowledge of electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems, as well as strong interpersonal and IT skills. This role will have a strong focus on career growth, with opportunities for developing project management and sales skills, as well as travel prospects covering significant horticultural hubs within New Zealand.

As a Technician, you will:

• Develop knowledge of Powerplants products and sectors (hydroponic vegetables, leafy greens, hydroponic berries, plant nurseries, potted plants, cut flowers, indoor vertical farms & medical cannabis).
• Establish and maintain customer relationships through regular, in-person contact.
• Provide technical assistance and support to customers.
• Install and maintain Powerplants products and systems (Electrical Control systems, Water systems & Climate systems, Automation & Logistics equipment).
• Identify strategies and opportunities for new business and solve problems as they occur.
• Produce reports and provide market intelligence on competitor activity.
• Attend major industry events and activities (conferences, trade shows, grower days etc.) on behalf of Powerplants.
• Maintain regular contact with Commercial Director & Sales Team, provide updates by participating in weekly Sales meetings (via Teams).

About you

You will be a valued team member, contributing to high-quality, ongoing customer support within the Powerplants client network. You will be responsible for developing close relationships with new and existing customers, ensuring positive customer experiences, and encouraging high regard of Powerplants. Your skills and attributes will include:

• Professional, confident manner.
• Commitment to providing exceptional customer service.
• Excellent communication (verbal and written).
• Communicates with different personality types/cultures with positivity, respect, and patience.
• High attention to detail.
• Good time management and self-management skills.
• Works well with others, provides a positive contribution and constructive feedback.
• Self-motivated, ask questions, wants to explore and understand how things work
• Willingness to assist and support others as required and get on with team members.
• Excellent problem solving, interpretation, reasoning, and judgement skills.
• Proactively pursues personal growth & career development.
• Personal interest/passion for plants, technology, and sustainability.

Benefits and perks

Powerplants is committed to equal opportunity and is passionate about creating an environment where people get things done and have fun doing it. We believe every employee has the right to carry out their work in an environment that promotes job satisfaction and maximises performance.

• Become part of a diverse and supportive team network.
• Receive professional mentoring/one-on-one training from Commercial Director for the first year (as needed).
• Join the future of New Zealand’s horticultural innovation, with a growing global reach.
• Access clear career development pathways and support for individual growth.
• Make an impact in a sustainably focused company that is committed its employees.

Qualifications and requirements

• Formal Qualification in technical field (i.e. Engineering, Electronics, Electrical, Science, Horticulture etc.) is preferred
• Practical knowledge of hydraulic & mechanical system including installation & maintenance
• Practical knowledge of electrical principals, industrial componentry & control methodology
• Practical knowledge of computers, IP assignments & basic programming logic
• Basic understanding of greenhouse operations would be an advantage
• Valid driving license
• Willingness to travel monthly (or as needed)
• Industry experience or long-term passion for the industry (highly regarded)
• Prior experience in a customer facing role

If interested in this role e-mail elise.slattery@powerplants.com.au