Grading Supervisor - Te Puna

About DMS Progrowers

DMS Progrowers Ltd is a leading operator in kiwifruit and avocado orchard management as well as post-harvest processing based in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. Locally owned and operated, the company is dedicated to enhancing grower profitability, operating packhouses in Te Puna and Te Puke, and consistently ranking among the top performers within the horticultural industry. The company culture prioritizes teamwork, initiative, positivity, and employee wellbeing.

Role Overview

The Grading Supervisor position is a hands-on leadership role within the packhouse operation located in Te Puna. The main responsibility is to oversee the grading area, ensuring that the fruit meets the specific demands of customers, export standards, and quality benchmarks. The role involves collaboration with Site Quality Management, Production Coordinators, Packing Teams, and Quality Controllers to meet daily production and quality goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, train, and support grading staff across all shifts to maintain a motivated and competent team.
• Ensure grading is performed accurately and complies with customer, export, MPI, Zespri, NZ Avocados, and DMS criteria.
• Monitor grading and quality metrics and promptly communicate any concerns to Quality and Production teams.
• Coordinate with Production and Quality teams to optimize outcomes across all fruit categories.
• Maintain accurate sampling, documentation, and record-keeping standards.
• Support compliance with BRC, food safety regulations, and occupational health and safety policies.
• Effectively lead PPI teams within site operations.
• Identify grading and quality issues, work collaboratively to resolve them.
• Promote and support continuous staff training to foster a professional and food-safe work environment.
• Assist in achieving efficient grading processes while upholding high quality standards.
• Contribute to site and business objectives by supporting Quality Management and wider management team initiatives.
• Complete necessary administrative tasks such as reports and forms accurately and punctually.
• Perform additional operational duties during seasonal peaks as required.

Candidate Requirements

• Previous experience in a quality-centric capacity such as Quality Controller, Grader, or related role.
• Comprehensive knowledge of fruit handling, grading procedures, and quality standards.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities to mentor and engage a team effectively.
• High attention to detail with a staunch commitment to maintaining quality.
• Capability to diagnose and resolve quality issues promptly in a high-tempo environment.
• Proficiency with computers and adaptability to new software systems.
• Skill in managing multiple priorities and meeting deadlines consistently.
• Sound understanding of food safety, quality assurance, and export regulatory compliance.
• A dependable, professional demeanor coupled with a cooperative team attitude.
• Dedication to workplace health, safety, and fostering a positive team culture.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience in the kiwifruit, horticulture, packhouse, or food processing sectors.
• Familiarity with standards like Zespri, MPI, NZ Avocados, BRC, and export quality requirements.
• Practical knowledge of MAF GS7 food safety system.
• Prior supervisory or leadership experience in a packhouse or production setting.

Why Work at DMS?

• Enjoy a supportive team environment with experienced leadership and passionate colleagues.
• Opportunity for career progression within a respected horticultural company.
• Attractive compensation package including health insurance and employee benefits.
• Work for an industry-leading organization prioritizing quality, innovation, and employee wellbeing.
• Contribute directly to quality assurance, team development, and operational efficiency.