Technical and Process Engineering Manager

About Abbott

Abbott is a leading global healthcare company dedicated to pioneering scientific advancements that enhance people’s health worldwide. Our nutrition division creates scientifically-backed nutritional products that support individuals at every stage of life—from infant growth to maintaining adult strength and wellness. Trusted brands such as Similac®, PediaSure®, Pedialyte®, Ensure®, and Glucerna® help millions obtain the essential nutrients for their optimal health.

Why Join Abbott?

• Opportunity to develop your career within a multinational organization supporting professional growth and advancement.
• Comprehensive benefits package designed to promote health, financial security, and overall well-being for you and your family, including medical insurance and wellness programs.
• A work environment recognized globally as outstanding, with Abbott ranked among the most admired companies by Fortune.

Position Overview

The Technical and Process Engineering Manager will lead a team consisting of Process Engineers, Packaging Engineers, and Process Technologists/Scientists within nutritional powder and dairy manufacturing. This leadership role provides crucial technical expertise to support manufacturing operations and new product commercialization. Collaborating closely with Operations, Operational Excellence, R&D, Quality, and Supply Chain departments, you will address process and quality challenges while driving continuous improvements and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor engineers and technologists involved in Nutritional Powder and Dairy manufacturing processes.
• Provide technical guidance and troubleshoot process and product-related issues effectively.
• Identify and implement improvements to enhance manufacturing efficiency, elevate product quality, and minimize waste.
• Coordinate and support plant trials for new product introductions, process enhancements, and material changes.
• Oversee process engineering projects, equipment upgrades, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful product launches and compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Create a positive, engaged, and cooperative team environment consistent with Abbott’s core values.
• Manage employee training, conflict resolution, leave approvals, and expense compliance in alignment with company policies.
• Adhere to ISO quality standards and all relevant occupational health, safety, and environmental policies, including proper use of PPE and reporting incidents promptly.
• Uphold Abbott’s Code of Business Conduct and organizational values—Pioneering, Achieving, Caring, Enduring.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, food science, or a closely related technical discipline.
• Strong familiarity with Spray Drying, Blending, and Canning operations and technologies is essential.
• Master’s degree in a relevant field is preferred.
• Demonstrated mindset for continuous improvement and strategic/systemic thinking.
• Experience in program and project leadership with strong process excellence and quality orientation.
• Proven problem-solving and analytical skills coupled with the ability to influence stakeholders effectively.

Location and Equity Statement

This position is located in Pokeno, Waikato, New Zealand. Abbott is committed to equal employment opportunity and values workplace diversity. Join us to further your career aspirations with a company dedicated to helping you build your future and live your best life.