Food Quality Lab Technician | Safety & Compliance

Silver Fern Farms; Balclutha; On-site; NZD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Heavily discounted staff meat sales

Paid sick leave from day one

Confidential employee assistance

Supportive team environment

Job summary

Silver Fern Farms Balclutha is seeking a Laboratory Technician to join the Finegand operations team. You will perform chemical and microbiological testing to support food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance, working closely with the Laboratory Manager and technical colleagues.

This hands-on role requires strong attention to detail, reliable work habits, and a proactive approach to safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Experience or foundational knowledge of laboratory practices, particularly analytical testing.
• Strong attention to detail and a high standard of record keeping.
• Understanding of food safety and quality systems (meat industry experience is advantageous but not essential).
• Good computer literacy, including Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to build effective working relationships.
• A proactive approach to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Carry out sampling, preparation, and analytical testing in line with Silver Fern Farms monitoring programmes and documented procedures
• Ensure high standards of accuracy, precision, and consistency in all laboratory testing
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment in accordance with schedules and compliance requirements
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised laboratory that meets health and safety standards
• Provide accurate, timely reporting for technical, quality, and compliance purposes
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and problem-solving within the laboratory
• Follow all health, safety, and wellness procedures, always ensuring safe work practices

Skills

Analytical testing

Attention to detail

Communication

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Silver Fern Farms Balclutha is seeking a Laboratory Technician to join the Finegand operations team. You will perform chemical and microbiological testing to support food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance, working closely with the Laboratory Manager and technical colleagues.

This hands-on role requires strong attention to detail, reliable work habits, and a proactive approach to safety and continuous improvement.