Prototype Development & Test Technician (Mechanical Engineering)

Location: Christchurch Office & Lab, New Zealand. Permanent, full-time role based in the Christchurch office and laboratory; occasional travel within New Zealand and internationally may be required.

Salary: NZD 100,000–120,000 per year.

Company

Engineering design and development business delivering ideation, R&D, testing, compliance, and accreditation services for international clients in adventure recreation, construction, transport, and roadside hardware.

What you will do

• Plan and execute multi-phase testing programmes covering concept exploration, performance validation, durability assessment, and failure investigation.
• Install and operate instrumentation, sensors, data acquisition systems, and test equipment.
• Fabricate, assemble, and commission prototypes, test rigs, jigs, and fixtures from engineering drawings and specifications.
• Collect, process, and present test data while preparing records, reports, and test methodologies.
• Troubleshoot prototype builds and test programmes, collaborating with engineers, clients, suppliers, and technicians.
• Coordinate testing schedules, development timelines, equipment availability, and material procurement across concurrent projects; support coaching, demonstrations, and witnessed testing.

Requirements

• Broad engineering workshop experience in product development, prototyping, manufacturing, or testing.
• Hands-on capability in manual machining, welding, CNC machining, 3D printing, precision assembly, and other fabrication techniques.
• Experience working from engineering drawings and specifications and developing practical solutions in uncertain environments.
• Experience with measurement and instrumentation systems, data acquisition, and test equipment.
• Strong data handling, spreadsheet, reporting, communication, safety, and quality-control skills.
• Mechanical engineering diploma, mechanical trade qualification, or equivalent practical experience is beneficial; ability to coach and support others is expected.

Culture & Benefits

• Supportive, close-knit environment focused on innovation, knowledge-sharing, diversity, and work-life balance.
• KiwiSaver, profit-share bonus, annual leave, and sick pay.
• Medical insurance for the employee and family, life insurance, wellness allowance, and Employee Assistance Programme.
• Onsite gym with classes, team lunches, events, refreshments, and snacks.
• Training support, access to tailored courses, and flexible working arrangements.