Lead Technician - Fermentation Subject Matter Expert

Job Overview

Located in Upper Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand, this position plays a vital role in supporting Animal Health site operations within a GMP-compliant manufacturing setting that prioritizes quality, safety, and ongoing enhancement. The role ensures the uninterrupted, regulatory-compliant supply of antigens tailored to customer requirements.

Role Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders to achieve technical goals within the assigned area.
• Proactively address and resolve intricate production and operational challenges.
• Critically assess procedures to drive improvements in quality, safety, process efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Lead remediation efforts and problem-solving initiatives, including Tier 1 and On-Point 8-Step Problem Solving methodologies.
• Facilitate effective communication for alignment across diverse teams.
• Organize and prioritize technician tasks within the designated area when necessary.
• Lead and contribute to projects involving cross-departmental collaboration and site-wide initiatives, including capital projects and Process Hazard Assessments.
• Ensure safety and quality standards are upheld within the technical domain and maintain transparent reporting of system and project progress.
• Analyze operational data to identify improvement opportunities and suggest actionable solutions.
• Support peak production periods by performing make-test-release and other routine technical work beyond standard protocols.
• Develop and refine procedures relating to make-test-release activities.
• Manage deviations, CAPAs, procedural changes, and Enablon system tasks in the assigned area.
• Coach and train production team members on operational tasks and best practices.
• Monitor production order instructions and document workflows to aid timely batch release and process optimization.

Candidate Requirements

• Exceptional teamwork skills combined with strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience working within GMP manufacturing environments.
• Specialized knowledge and prior experience with Clostridial vaccine production.
• Proven background in quality and environmental health and safety (EHS) systems, problem-solving, continuous improvement, and project management.
• Demonstrated leadership at an individual level within GMP-regulated biological or pharmaceutical manufacturing settings.
• Educational foundation in Biotechnology, Chemistry, or a related field at a working and conceptual level.

What the Role Offers

• A meaningful opportunity to impact critical Animal Health manufacturing processes.
• A position emphasizing leadership, technical expertise, and continuous improvement.
• A supportive team environment fostering professional growth and influence on site performance.
• An inclusive culture where diverse ideas and respectful challenges are encouraged.

Additional Information

• This is a regular employee position based onsite in Upper Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand.
• The role does not offer flexible work arrangements or relocation sponsorship.
• Possession of a valid driving license is required.
• The job posting closes on October 3, 2026; applicants should apply prior to that date.
• Applicants must be prepared to work in environments involving hazardous materials under GMP regulations.

Company Commitment

The organization values talent and inclusion, promoting a respectful and innovative workplace. They are an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering diversity and collaboration.