Salaries in the category

Mechanical Engineering

The gross salary range for people working in New Zealand in Mechanical Engineering is typically from 4,565 NZD (minimum salary) to 9,487 NZD (highest average, actual maximum salary is higher).

This is the total monthly salary including bonuses. Salaries can vary drastically among different job positions. If you are interested in the salary of a particular job, please choose it from the list.

Gross salary in category Mechanical Engineering

Salaries may vary by position, the value given is indicative.

80% of people earn:

4,565 - 9,487 NZD

10% earn less lthan 4,565 NZD

10% earns more than 9,487 NZD

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What does the data in the graph mean?

Salaries in the survey are expressed in gross.

Based on the Paylab.com salary survey, 80% of people in the Mechanical Engineering category in the New Zealand earn between 4,565 NZD and 9,487 NZD monthly gross.

10% of employees earn less than 4,565 NZD and 10% of people earn more than 9,487 NZD.

The survey is based on data from employees, cleaned of extreme and duplicate values.

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Set the salaries of your employees fairly. A detailed salary report will help you to do this. You will always have relevant salary data to hand.

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List of positions in the Mechanical Engineering category and their job descriptions

Job position

Description of job position

Market range

Automation engineer

Design, develop, and implement automation systems and solutions to improve manufacturing processes.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify automation needs and requirements.
Conduct feasibility studies and cost analysis for automation projects.
Program and configure PLCs, HMIs, and other automation equipment.
Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to automation systems and machinery.
Create and maintain documentation for automation processes, including specifications and user manuals.
Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations in all automation projects.
Provide technical support and training to operational staff on automated systems.
Stay updated on the latest technologies and trends in automation engineering.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and productivity within the organization.

6,346 - 12,035 NZD

Automation planner

Developing and implementing automation strategies to improve production efficiency.
Analyzing current manufacturing processes to identify automation opportunities.
Collaborating with engineering teams to design and optimize automated systems.
Creating detailed automation plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
Coordinating with suppliers and vendors to procure necessary automation equipment.
Conducting feasibility studies and risk assessments for automation projects.
Monitoring and evaluating the performance of automated systems and processes.
Providing technical support and troubleshooting for automation-related issues.
Training staff on new automated systems and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
Preparing reports and documentation related to automation projects and progress.
Staying updated on industry trends and advancements in automation technology.
Participating in cross-functional teams to enhance overall operational effectiveness.

5,603 - 10,941 NZD

CNC Machine Setter

Reading technical drawings.
Installing components and tools.
Ensuring the transfer of the program into the CNC machine.
Reading and editing the program.
Producing components.

4,304 - 8,235 NZD

CNC Programmer

Reading technical drawings.
Calculating the coordinates of the tool.
Writing the program using G and M codes.
Drawing and modelling tool path using the CAM program.
Ensuring the transfer of the program into the CNC machine.
Setting up the machine by fastening the workpiece and tool.
Producing components.

4,299 - 8,341 NZD

Cutter/Grinder/Polisher

Reading drawings.
Setting up grinding machinery and equipment.
Processing of semi-finished products by means of grinding machines and equipment with an emphasis placed on maintaining the desired shape, dimensions and tolerances.
Simple surface finish treatment of semi-finished products.
Carrying out simple repairs and the maintenance of machinery and equipment.

3,502 - 7,524 NZD

Design Engineer

Designing new products and devices. Choosing materials for their production, often also defining the technology of their production.
Completing construction documentation for the production - drawings, 3d data.
Looking up suppliers of the parts that are to be purchased, dealing with sales representatives of the suppliers, defining parameters of the purchased semi-finished products or finished products. Often also negotiating the price.
Checking the completeness of the supplied parts, compliance with the documentation, quality.
Supervising the assembly of devices that were designed by him and taking part in putting them into operation. Often in this phase he makes minor modifications and improvements. He determines the range and intervals of maintenance.

4,749 - 9,314 NZD

Design Technician

Elaborating technical documentation for the components, machines, automatic equipment, tools and systems with the help of specialized software.
Consulting the completed technical documentation with clients.
Cooperating with mechanical engineers, constructors and other members of the projection team.
Incorporating observations into the technical documentation.
Taking part in preparing the cost estimation.

5,385 - 10,683 NZD

Fitter/Assembler

Reading technical documentation.
Mounting machinery units and/or their parts according to technical documentation.
Testing the functionality of machine units and/or their parts after assembly.
Removing detected anomalies.
Handing over machine units and/or their parts after assembly.

3,406 - 7,247 NZD

Foundry worker

Operating and maintaining foundry equipment and machinery.
Preparing molds and casting materials for metal production.
Pouring molten metal into molds and ensuring proper cooling and solidification.
Monitoring the casting process to ensure quality and adherence to specifications.
Inspecting castings for defects and performing necessary adjustments or repairs.
Adhering to safety protocols and regulations to maintain a safe working environment.
Collaborating with team members to optimize production processes and efficiency.
Conducting routine maintenance on foundry equipment to prevent breakdowns.
Keeping accurate records of production quantities and material usage.
Assisting in the training of new employees on foundry operations and safety procedures.
Troubleshooting issues that arise during the casting process and implementing solutions.
Maintaining a clean and organized work area to uphold quality standards.
Participating in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce waste.

2,878 - 6,195 NZD

Lathe operator

Reading drawings.
Setting up lathes.
Processing of semifinished lathe products with an emphasis on maintaining of the desired shape, dimensions and tolerances.
Simple surface finish treatment of semifinished products.
Carrying out simple repairs and maintenance of machinery and equipment.

3,625 - 7,562 NZD

Machine Fitter

Using technical documents.
Processing sketches to complement the technological process of locksmithing.
Manual processing of machine components by filing, sawing, cutting, evening, bending, drilling and reaming.
Assembling parts of machinery and equipment.
Diagnosing and troubleshooting machine malfunctions.
Scraping, grinding, balancing, adjusting, connecting with bolts and rivets, soldering and welding machine parts.
Assembling machinery and equipment.

3,953 - 8,155 NZD

Machine Operator

Operating and monitoring machinery and equipment to ensure efficient production processes.
Conducting routine inspections and maintenance on machines to ensure optimal performance.
Setting up machines for production runs, including adjusting settings and calibrating equipment as needed.
Troubleshooting and resolving mechanical issues that may arise during operation.
Adhering to safety protocols and regulations to maintain a safe working environment.
Maintaining accurate production records and reporting any discrepancies to supervisors.
Collaborating with team members to meet production targets and improve operational efficiency.
Cleaning and organizing work areas to ensure a tidy and safe workspace.
Assisting in training new operators on machine operation and safety procedures.
Participating in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance production quality and efficiency.

2,727 - 5,931 NZD

Machine Operator, Machinist

Operating construction machines and mechanisms.
Performing construction work according to master builder’s instructions.
Checking the technical condition of entrusted construction machines and mechanisms.
Performing simple repairs and maintenance activities on entrusted construction machines and mechanisms.
Fuelling entrusted construction machines and mechanisms.

4,398 - 8,830 NZD

Maintenance Engineer

Providing preventive and operational maintenance of machinery and equipment.
Managing, coordinating, motivating and evaluating subordinate employees.
Developing and updating maintenance plans.
Identifying worn parts.
Ordering spare parts.
Analysing the causes of downtime and taking measures to eliminate them.
Monitoring and controlling maintenance costs.
Communicating with shift masters, process engineers and suppliers of machinery and equipment.

5,527 - 11,039 NZD

Mechanical Engineer

Designing components, machinery, equipment, automated equipment, tools and systems with the use of specialised software.
Communicating with clients with the aim to determine their needs.
Completing analyses and cost estimation.
Contacting manufacturing companies in connection with prototype production.
Incorporating client comments into the proposals.
Product analysing and testing.
Communicating with subcontractors and other team members.
Solving incurred technical and technological problems.

5,145 - 10,382 NZD

Mechanization Manager

Develop concepts, processes and work methods and processes to support business and growth requirements.
Manage and direct all automation projects utilizing sound project management principles and tools.
Analyze and develop engineered standards utilizing time and motion studies, statistical analysis and manpower planning tools to improve productivity, accuracy and service level.
Responsible for repair maintenance of all the assets.
Maintenance planning and availability of all equipment.
Spares planning and management.
Liaison with various vendors for technical support.
Techno-commercial analysis for operational costs.
Preparing equipment performance reports.
Training the team of engineers and operators.
Cost effective equipment performance.

6,918 - 14,054 NZD

Metalworker

Fabricating and assembling metal structures and components according to specifications and engineering drawings.
Operating various metalworking machines, including lathes, milling machines, and welding equipment.
Performing quality control checks to ensure that finished products meet industry standards and customer requirements.
Interpreting technical documents, blueprints, and schematics to carry out production tasks accurately.
Maintaining tools and equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Collaborating with team members to improve production processes and efficiency.
Adhering to safety protocols and regulations to create a safe working environment.
Troubleshooting and resolving issues that arise during the manufacturing process.
Keeping detailed records of production activities, including materials used and time spent on each task.
Participating in training and development programs to enhance skills and knowledge in metalworking techniques and technologies.

4,220 - 8,733 NZD

Milling-Machine Operator

Reading drawings.
Setting up the cutter.
Processing semifinished products using a cutter with an emphasis placed on maintaining the desired shape, dimensions and tolerances.
Simple surface finish treatment of semifinished products.
Carrying out the simple repairs and maintenance of machinery and equipment.

3,615 - 7,681 NZD

Operations Supervisor

Overseeing daily operations and ensuring efficiency in production processes.
Supervising and coordinating the activities of the operations team.
Implementing and maintaining operational policies and procedures to enhance productivity.
Monitoring performance metrics and preparing reports for upper management.
Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.
Collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize workflow and resolve operational issues.
Training and mentoring staff to improve skills and performance.
Managing inventory levels and coordinating with supply chain for timely procurement.
Addressing employee concerns and fostering a positive work environment.
Assisting in budget preparation and cost management initiatives.
Conducting regular inspections to ensure equipment and facilities are in optimal condition.
Participating in strategic planning and continuous improvement initiatives.
Communicating effectively with stakeholders to align operational goals with business objectives.

5,229 - 10,590 NZD

Process Engineer

Responsibility for the implementation of new products in the company.
Completing detailed production documentation and working procedures.
Updating production documentation and working procedures in case of a change in the production process.
Implementing tools increasing the efficiency of the production process (e.g. Six Sigma, Kaizen, Lean, poka-yoke etc.).
Reducing production costs while maintaining the required level of quality.
Solving the incurred problems and abnormalities.
Participating in the selection and deployment of technological equipment on the company premises.
Estimating the requirements regarding the staff, production time and costs.
Communicating with other departments in the company.

5,361 - 10,390 NZD

Production Manager

Oversee and coordinate all production activities to ensure efficient and effective operations.
Develop production schedules and workflows to meet customer demands and optimize resource utilization.
Monitor production processes and implement improvements to enhance productivity and quality.
Manage and lead a team of production staff, providing training, guidance, and performance evaluations.
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies to maintain a safe working environment.
Collaborate with other departments, such as engineering and quality assurance, to align production goals with overall company objectives.
Analyze production data to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for improvement.
Manage inventory levels and coordinate with supply chain teams to ensure adequate material availability.
Prepare and present production reports to senior management, highlighting achievements and areas for development.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives, fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency within the production team.

5,609 - 11,192 NZD

Production Planner

Develop and maintain production schedules to ensure timely delivery of products.
Collaborate with various departments, including procurement, manufacturing, and logistics, to align production plans with company goals.
Analyze production data to identify trends, forecast demand, and optimize resource allocation.
Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with suppliers to ensure the availability of materials.
Adjust production schedules in response to changes in demand, supply chain disruptions, or equipment failures.
Communicate regularly with team members to provide updates on production status and address any potential issues.
Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance production efficiency and reduce costs.
Prepare reports on production performance, inventory levels, and capacity utilization for management review.
Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards throughout the production process.
Participate in cross-functional meetings to support strategic planning and operational excellence.

4,494 - 8,740 NZD

Qualified Mechanical Engineer

Reading and interpreting blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, and computer-generated reports.
Conferring with engineers and other personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, and provide technical information.
Researching and analyzing customer design proposals, specifications, manuals, and other data to evaluate the feasibility, cost, and maintenance requirements of designs or applications.
Researching, designing, evaluating, installing, operating, and maintaining mechanical products, equipment, systems and processes to meet requirements while applying knowledge of engineering principles.
Providing feedback to design engineers on customer problems and needs.
Overseeing installation, operation, maintenance, and repair to ensure that machines and equipment are installed and functioning according to specifications.

6,170 - 12,116 NZD

Service Engineer

Mounting, dismantling and powering up production machinery and equipment.
Providing the repairs and maintenance of the production machinery and equipment.
Providing employee trainings on the use of production machinery and equipment.
Completing technical reports.
Providing technical support to internal and external customers.

Smith

Fabricating artistic, craft and commercial products of daily needs made of iron, steel, copper and other metals.
Heating the steel and iron in a blacksmith’s furnace to the desired temperature.
Forming iron and steel with hand tools and machinery.
Cooling the finished product in water.
Fabricating horseshoes, shoeing horses.

4,172 - 8,338 NZD

Superintendent

Overseeing and managing engineering projects from conception to completion.
Coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure project timelines and deliverables are met.
Developing and implementing engineering procedures and standards to enhance efficiency and quality.
Conducting regular site inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations and project specifications.
Providing technical guidance and support to engineering teams and subcontractors.
Reviewing and approving engineering designs, plans, and specifications.
Managing project budgets and resources effectively to optimize costs and ensure financial accountability.
Preparing detailed reports and presentations for stakeholders regarding project progress and performance.
Identifying potential risks and developing mitigation strategies to address them.
Ensuring continuous improvement in engineering practices and fostering a culture of innovation within the team.
Mentoring and training junior engineers to enhance their skills and professional development.
Collaborating with clients to understand their needs and ensure satisfaction with engineering solutions provided.

5,475 - 11,126 NZD

Technical product engineer

Collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop and enhance mechanical products.
Conducting detailed analysis and simulations to validate product designs and performance.
Creating and maintaining technical documentation, including specifications, drawings, and user manuals.
Assisting in the testing and evaluation of prototypes to ensure compliance with industry standards.
Identifying and resolving engineering issues throughout the product lifecycle.
Providing technical support and guidance to production teams during manufacturing processes.
Participating in product development meetings to contribute insights and recommendations based on engineering principles.
Staying updated on industry trends and advancements in mechanical engineering to inform product innovation.
Ensuring adherence to safety regulations and quality assurance protocols.
Collaborating with suppliers to source materials and components necessary for product development.

6,249 - 12,169 NZD

Technician

Making machines, machinery and appliances operational in engineering production.
Analysing faults in order to identify the reasons why they originated.
Performing repairs of machines, machinery and appliances by replacing faulty components with new ones, or by modifying software.
Managing and checking technical documentation and keeping it up to date.
Ensuring technical support of processes and products in engineering production.

4,304 - 8,568 NZD

Technologist

Inventing new and improving existing technological processes.
Supervising the observance of formulations and technological processes.
Management of the pre-production process to eliminate any possible shortcomings.
Assessing the quality of new products.
Proposing measures to optimise the production processes.
Analysing variations incurred in conjunction with the shift chiefs.
Drafting and updating of technological documentation and/or drawings.
Cooperating in the preparation of price calculations.

4,341 - 8,652 NZD

Varnisher

Preparing surfaces for varnishing by cleaning, sanding, and priming as necessary.
Applying varnish, stains, and sealants to various surfaces, ensuring an even and high-quality finish.
Mixing and matching colors to achieve desired results based on project specifications.
Operating and maintaining varnishing equipment and tools to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Conducting quality checks on finished products, ensuring adherence to industry standards and client specifications.
Collaborating with team members to meet project deadlines and maintain production schedules.
Keeping work areas clean and organized, adhering to health and safety regulations.
Documenting work processes and materials used for inventory and quality control purposes.
Troubleshooting and resolving any issues related to varnishing processes or equipment.
Staying updated on new varnishing techniques and materials to enhance skills and improve work quality.

Welder

Welding metals, plastics, and polymers pursuant to the technical documentation.
Defining suitable methods for welding and work procedures.
Using welding tools and instruments, responsibility for proper settings and use.
Cleaning, polishing, and other finishing work for welds.
Inspecting the quality of welds using a series of tests.
Caring for and maintaining technical equipment in operating condition.

3,785 - 8,362 NZD

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