Data & Pest Intelligence Specialist — FlexWELL & WFH

Zespri International; Mount Maunganui; Hybrid; NZD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

FlexWELL flexible work ethos (WFH &amp

Additional paid annual leave (Zespri D

Office in Mount Maunganui with free on

Job summary

Zespri is the world’s leading kiwifruit marketer, with a 14‑month fixed‑term Technical Specialist – Data and Response role in its Global Quality and Technical function. You’ll support Pest Identification lab operations, maintain records, and analyse pest and quality data to support export requirements and incidents.

The role offers varied work, collaboration across teams and potential on‑call duties during peak periods.

Qualifications

• A qualification in horticulture, food, science or related discipline, or at least three years’ relevant industry experience.
• At least one year’s experience in a Pest ID laboratory, Quality Systems or Data Analysis role.
• A sound understanding of quality systems and accurate record keeping.
• Strong analytical skills and confidence working with data and Excel.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to work independently while remaining flexible and collaborative.

Responsibilities

• Support the day‑to‑day operation of Pest Identification laboratory and Pest ID Programme.
• Complete accurate and timely pest identifications for the kiwifruit industry.
• Maintain pest identification records, specimen collections and training materials.
• Support Official Assurance Programmes and export requirements, with focus on China.
• Collect, analyse and report pest, quality and traceability data.
• Coordinate stakeholders and manage information during quality incidents and investigations.
• Support residue risk management, continuous improvement and document management.
• Participate in weekend on‑call roster during peak season.

Skills

Pest Identification

Data Analysis

Quality Systems

Excel

Documentation

Laboratory Operations

Education

Tertiary qualification in horticulture/food science or related discipline

Tools

Pest ID laboratory software

Quality management systems (QMS)

Job description

Zespri is the world’s leading kiwifruit marketer, with a 14‑month fixed‑term Technical Specialist – Data and Response role in its Global Quality and Technical function. You’ll support Pest Identification lab operations, maintain records, and analyse pest and quality data to support export requirements and incidents.

The role offers varied work, collaboration across teams and potential on‑call duties during peak periods.