Packaging Technologist

Goodman Fielder; Auckland; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Goodman Fielder in Auckland seeks a curious, technically minded Packaging Technologist to join its R&D team and shape packaging for iconic food brands.

You will work hands-on with flexible and rigid plastics, paper, and other formats, running trials, and collaborating across functions to deliver smarter, more sustainable packaging solutions. An engineering mindset and a passion for learning will help you thrive.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years experience in packaging technology with plastics knowledge.
• Engineering mindset and interest in machinery and manufacturing processes.
• Curious, practical approach with strong analytical skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Develop and improve packaging solutions for new and existing products.
• Plan and run factory and transport trials, analysing results to identify improvements.
• Collaborate with R&D, Marketing, Procurement, Operations, Quality and suppliers to bring projects to life.
• Explore new packaging technologies, materials and sustainable solutions.
• Manage project timelines, specifications and technical documentation.
• Ensure packaging meets food safety, quality, regulatory and sustainability requirements.
• Dive into AI and how it can improve packaging within R&D.

Skills

packaging technology

problem solving

analytical skills

stakeholder management

Education

Packaging Technology degree

Food Technology or Materials Science or Engineering

Job description

Hands-on innovation: Develop and trial packaging solutions for New Zealand's much-loved food brands.

Technical variety: Work across flexible and rigid plastics, paper, liquid paperboard, and many other packaging formats.

Room to grow: Bring your curiosity, build your expertise and make your mark.

The Opportunity

At Goodman Fielder, packaging plays a critical role in product performance, manufacturing efficiency, cost and sustainability. We're looking for a curious, technically minded Packaging Technologist to join our Auckland-based R&D team and help shape the next generation of packaging for our iconic food brands.

Bringing proven experience and knowledge working with all packaging formats (flexible and ridged plastics a bonus), you'll work hands-on with packaging materials, machinery and factory trials to deliver smarter, more efficient solutions.

If you have an engineering mindset, love understanding how things work and are motivated to learn, challenge ideas and make improvements, this is an opportunity to build your expertise while making a tangible difference to the business.

What You Will Do

• Develop and improve packaging solutions for new and existing products.
• Plan and run factory and transport trials, analysing results to identify improvements.
• Work closely with R&D, Marketing, Procurement, Operations, Quality and packaging suppliers to bring projects to life.
• Explore new packaging technologies, materials and sustainable solutions.
• Manage project timelines, specifications and technical documentation.
• Help ensure packaging meets food safety, quality, regulatory and sustainability requirements.
• Dive into AI and how it can improve packaging within R&D

What You Will Bring

• 2–5 years' experience in packaging technology with experience with flexible and rigid plastics
• A degree in Packaging Technology, Food Technology, Materials Science, Engineering or a related field.
• An engineering mindset and interest in machinery, manufacturing processes and technology is highly desirable.
• A curious, practical approach to problem-solving, with strong analytical skills and high attention to detail.
• Motivation, initiative and a willingness to learn, take ownership and try new things.
• Confidence working with different stakeholders and managing multiple projects.

About Us

At Goodman Fielder, our purpose is Making everyday food better for everyone. We're behind some of New Zealand's most loved brands, including Meadow Fresh, Puhoi Valley, Vogel's and Freya's.

Our R&D team works at the intersection of food, technology and innovation — turning ideas into practical solutions that make a real difference.

Benefits

• Work with iconic food brands and a collaborative R&D team.
• Build your technical expertise across packaging, manufacturing and innovation.
• Make a real impact on packaging performance, cost and sustainability.
• Grow your career in a business with opportunities to learn and develop.