Process Technologist - Maungaturoto Site

About Fonterra Maungaturoto

Founded in 1902, the Maungatūroto site is one of Fonterra’s most historic manufacturing locations and a crucial hub for Northland’s dairy operations. This facility processes up to 2 million litres of milk daily during the peak season, producing various products such as whole milk powder, buttermilk powder, whey powder, and rennet casein destined for global markets including China, Southeast Asia, and the Americas. The site houses five manufacturing plants alongside an on-site packing facility and is notable for its sustainability efforts, including the recovery of up to 700,000 litres of water daily through an award-winning wetland water recovery system.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Process Technologist to join our regional technical team at Maungaturoto. This role involves delivering expert technical advice and support across our manufacturing network by collaborating closely with operations, engineering, and production teams. The aim is to optimise plant operations, resolve technical issues, and lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, yield, quality, and cost efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Offer specialised technical guidance and assistance to manufacturing sites and stakeholders.
• Diagnose and resolve process-related challenges to maintain stable and effective plant performance.
• Identify opportunities and execute improvements in quality, yield, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
• Support and lead improvement projects at the site, regional, and national levels.
• Participate in product trials, process development activities, and the implementation of new technologies.
• Collaboratively work with operations teams to promote ongoing process enhancements.
• Enhance team capabilities by sharing technical knowledge across manufacturing groups.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a curious and technically skilled problem solver who enjoys partnering with operational teams to produce tangible improvements in a fast-paced environment. You have a strong analytical mindset, are comfortable interpreting data and processes, and possess a passion for optimising plant performance.

Strong communication and relationship-building skills are essential, allowing you to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and influence positive outcomes. You thrive both supporting daily operational challenges and contributing to larger-scale improvement projects with a proactive attitude and commitment to making a meaningful difference.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Relevant experience in food manufacturing, dairy processing, engineering, or comparable technical environments.
• Proven ability in technical troubleshooting and structured problem-solving.
• Experience identifying and implementing process improvement initiatives.
• Capability to manage multiple priorities efficiently.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• A tertiary qualification in Food Technology, Engineering, Science, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• A strong interest in learning, continuous improvement, and expanding technical knowledge.

Our Values and Commitment

Fonterra promotes an inclusive culture valuing collaboration, continuous development, and community contribution. We champion values embodied by Good Together, Better Every Day, and Every Drop Counts, which direct our efforts to deliver outstanding results for farmers, customers, and communities alike.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including fair pay, medical and mental health support, opportunities for professional and career growth, work-life balance options including flexible working arrangements, employee recognition programs, and support for community and cultural involvement.

Inclusion and Application Process

We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and abilities, emphasizing our commitment to diversity and fair access. If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please reach out to the recruiter to ensure equitable participation.

Applications close at midnight on Tuesday 15th September 2026.