Production Operator

Role overview

This is a permanent, onsite Production Operator position based in Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty. The business is part of a global ingredients group serving food manufacturers with functional fruit solutions and other food ingredient innovations. The site operates as a small, friendly team with increased production capacity driving the need for additional operators.

What you will do

• Carry out quality checks on products and help with equipment calibration.
• Run process machinery in a safe and efficient manner.
• Work with automated packing equipment and handle general packing tasks.
• Use a forklift when material movement is required.
• Weigh, combine, load, and prepare ingredients for production.
• Create labels and complete routine computer-based administrative tasks.
• Support the Shift Manager with day-to-day operational work linked to the role.

Shift pattern and working hours

The plant runs from 6pm Sunday through to 6pm Friday. The job is organised across rotating 12-hour shifts, with day shifts from 6am to 6pm and night shifts from 6pm to 6am. The current roster follows a 2-week night shift cycle and a 3-week day shift cycle, with planned days off during the week on day shifts. Night work attracts an additional shift allowance.

Pay and progression

The starting rate is NZ$28.30 per hour, with an extra NZ$5.00 per hour for night shifts. The base rate begins at Packing Operator level, and there are pathways to move into other factory roles such as Quality Control Operator, Loading Operator, and Process Operator. Progression and starting pay may be influenced by prior experience in a manufacturing environment.

What the team is looking for

• Careful, detail-focused work with the ability to keep records accurate.
• A cooperative team style and a positive, can-do approach.
• Good physical fitness, energy, initiative, and enthusiasm for daily work.
• Drive and ambition, with potential to grow within the business.
• Food manufacturing experience, particularly in plant-based production, is helpful but not essential.

Workplace and hiring conditions

• The site offers a clean and safe work environment.
• Employee parking is available on site.
• Applicants should be prepared for a pre-employment medical check and drug test as part of the company’s health and safety requirements.
• Conditions apply to the role.
• People whose skills and interests match the position are encouraged to apply.

About the employer

The employer is a global manufacturer and supplier of functional ingredients used by leading snack brands, with production facilities in Mount Maunganui and Belgium. It is part of a larger international business focused on flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, and biosciences, with an emphasis on sustainable innovation, product improvement, and inclusive employment.