Assistant Plant Manager

JB Business Ltd; Katikati; On-site; NZD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

JB Business Ltd in Katikati seeks an Assistant to the Honey Extraction Plant Manager to support the Plant Manager in a high-volume honey processing facility. You will be trained in post-harvest operations from raw comb receiving through to extraction, filtration, drum filling, and bulk storage with strict hygiene and quality standards.

The role requires the ability to cope with seasonal workload fluctuations, extended hours during peak season, and a proactive, safety-first mindset within a

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of management experience in a honey extraction plant or primary food processing environment (e.g., dairy, fruit packing).
• Experience managing MPI Risk Management Programmes (RMP) and HACCP food safety systems.
• Ability to adapt to extended hours and shifting priorities during peak season.

Responsibilities

• Support the Plant Manager in daily honey extraction and processing schedules to maximise yield and throughput.
• Learn to apply MPI regulations and Food Act requirements and RMP standards for export-ready honey.
• Monitor grading, moisture, filtration quality, and traceability from hive to drum.
• Contribute to a positive team culture with permanent staff and seasonal workers, prioritising health and safety.
• Undertake cleaning (CIP), sanitation, and preventative maintenance of extraction lines and equipment.

Skills

Management experience

Food safety systems

HACCP

MPI regulations

Forklift license

Tools

Forklift operation

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

My client is seeking an Assistant to the Honey Extraction Plant Manager supporting the Plant Manager in a high-volume honey processing facility in Katikati. You will be trained in the entire post-harvest operation from raw comb receiving through to extraction, filtration, drum filling, and bulk storage. This role requires a person who copes well under pressure associated with unique seasonal workload fluctuation of the New Zealand apiculture industry and who continues to maintain strict hygiene and quality standards.

Key responsibilities

• Support the Plant Manager in daily honey extraction and processing schedules, to ensure maximum yield, minimal waste, and optimal throughput during peak honey season
• Learn to understand and apply the requirements to comply with MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) regulations, Food Act 2014 requirements, and RMP (Risk Management Programme) standards for export-ready honey
• Monitor honey grading, moisture levels, filtration quality, and traceability metrics from hive to drum
• Contribute to a positive team culture of permanent plant staff and a large influx of seasonal extraction workers, including demonstrating a strong culture of health and safety
• Undertake the cleaning (CIP), sanitation, and preventative maintenance of high-speed extraction lines, uncapping machines, and centrifuges

About you

• Minimum 3-5 years of management experience within a honey extraction plant or a primary food processing environment (e.g., dairy, fruit packing)
• Experience managing MPI Risk Management Programmes (RMP) and HACCP food safety systems
• Ability to adapt to extended hours and shifting priorities during the intense summer harvest window
• Mechanically minded with the ability to troubleshoot automated extraction machinery and fluid handling pumps
• Ability to communicate effectively with a multicultural seasonal workforce
• Forklift and Class 2 truck license is essential