Scanning and Optimisation Specialist

At Niagara, we are committed to producing world class timber products while investing in our people, our technology, and our long term sustainability. Everything we do is guided by our core values: working as a team, acting with integrity, and always striving for excellence.

We are currently seeking a Scanning and Optimisation Specialist to play a critical role in maximising wood recovery and operational performance across our sawmill and remanufacturing operations. This role combines advanced scanning technology, data engineering, and operational insight to deliver measurable business outcomes.

This is a full‑time, permanent, in‑house role. Hybrid or remote working options are not available at this time. While there is flexibility around start and finish times, the role requires on‑site presence in the office Monday to Friday.

You will work closely with operators, site leadership, and off‑site technology providers, with opportunities for international training and exposure to global best practice.
This role will play an instrumental role in supporting the operational efficiency of our mill expansion, more information: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/592893/southland-based-niagara-sawmilling-company-begins-115m-expansion

As a Scanning and Optimisation Specialist, you will be responsible for managing advanced scanning systems, analysing production data, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives that enhance yield, reduce waste, and support operational excellence. Success in this role requires strong technical skills, a collaborative mindset, and a commitment to doing the right thing.

Key responsibilities

Manage and optimise high‑precision scanning systems and technologies (including USNR and Microtec)
Lead data‑driven optimisation initiatives to improve wood recovery and process performance
Conduct production simulations to evaluate scenarios and identify optimisation opportunities
Translate operational data into actionable insights for frontline teams and senior leaders
Train, coach, and support operators and stakeholders on scanning systems and best practices
Stay current with emerging technologies, recommending upgrades or replacements where needed
Build strong, respectful working relationships across operations, IT, and leadership
This role requires strong capability across data engineering, analytics, and operational reporting, including:

Data Analysis & Operations Data

Requirements gathering with operational stakeholders
Data exploration, profiling, and hypothesis testing
Business insights and continuous improvement analysis
Operational reporting, KPI monitoring, exception reporting
Compliance and audit‑ready data management
Data Engineering

Building and maintaining data pipelines (ELT)
Data warehousing / lakehouse design and management
Data modelling (facts & dimensions)
Data quality management and validation
Automation of data processes
Performance optimisation and scalability
Data Presentation & Decision Support

Dashboards and self‑service BI (e.g. Power BI)
Board level preparation of data reporting
Slide decks and decision briefs for operational and strategic use
Our ideal candidate will have

Experience across optimisation, scanning technology, or industrial data environments
Strong SQL and analytical capability with an engineering mindset
A practical, detail‑focused approach to problem solving
Confidence communicating technical insights to non‑technical audiences
A passion and commitment to learning, improvement, and high standards
A strong alignment with Niagara’s values
Based in the Southland region, Invercargill offers an outstanding quality of life, with affordable housing, excellent schools, short commutes, and easy access to some of New Zealand’s most stunning natural landscapes. For more information about our exciting city and region visit: https://southlandnz.com/places-to-visit/invercargill/

At Niagara, we believe our people are our greatest strength. If you are ready to contribute your skills, values, and ambition to a business that invests in innovation and continuous improvement, we would love to hear from you. Niagara combines the scale of a corporate business with the strength of family‑owned values, where commitment and loyalty are celebrated.

For more information or to request a job description, please contact: Jemma from the HR team at jemmac@niagara.nz

Please note:

To learn more about Niagara and our commitment to our people, plants, and communities, please watch the featured video link.
Applicants must have current New Zealand work eligibility and already be residing in New Zealand
If applying from outside Southland, please include details in your cover letter outlining your motivation for relocating
All applicants will be updated after the closing date of the advertisement

Full Time
Application Closes 02 Jun 2026
Southland - Invercargill
OnSite