Production Operator

Bakels Edible Oils NZ; Tauranga; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Bakels Edible Oils NZ is seeking a hands-on production operator in Tauranga to join a fast-paced food manufacturing team. You’ll be responsible for setting up and operating a mix of automated and manual plant, running production processes, and solving issues as they arise on shift.

The role emphasises practical problem solving, ownership of tasks, and a proactive approach. You’ll work 4 shifts (2 days, 2 nights) with 4 days off, contributing to a collaborative team that keeps operations running

Qualifications

• Food manufacturing or engineering experience is a plus.
• We’re interested in how you think and are looking for practical, hands-on thinkers.
• You’ll learn fast and ask questions.
• Take ownership of your work.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate automated and manual plant and equipment.
• Run and monitor production processes.
• Troubleshoot issues and make real-time decisions when things don’t go to plan.
• Work with pumps, systems, and machinery.

Skills

Hands-on

Problem solving

Machinery operation

Fast learner

Ownership

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.

If you like hands-on work, solving problems as they happen, and getting to grips with how machines and processes actually run, this role will suit you. This is a fast-paced food manufacturing environment where you’re right in the action, setting things up, keeping them running, and stepping in when something doesn’t go to plan.

You’ll fit in well if you:

• Enjoy figuring out how equipment and processes work.
• Take pride in doing things properly, not just getting them done.
• Want a role where you’re trusted to think and make decisions.

If that sounds like you, keep reading.

What you’ll be doing:

You’ll be working in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment, working 4 shifts on (2 days, 2 nights) and 4 days off, where no two shifts are the same. This includes:

• Setting up and operating a mix of automated and manual plant and equipment,
• Running and monitoring production processes,
• Troubleshooting issues and making real-time calls when things don’t go to plan (because they won’t),
• Working with pumps, systems, and machinery.

What we’re really looking for:

Yes, food manufacturing or engineering experience is a big plus. But we’re far more interested in how you think. We want people who:

• Are practical and hands-on.
• Bring consistent effort and a positive mindset.
• Learn fast and ask questions.
• Take ownership of their work.

The reality:

It’s a busy, hands-on environment. It can be challenging. But you’ll be part of a solid team that backs each other and gets the job done.

Why this role?

Because it’s not just about operating plant and machinery. It’s about being the person who keeps things running, solves problems, and makes a difference on shift.

Bakels Edible Oils specialises in manufacturing plant and animal-based oils and fats, that are the value-adding ingredients behind some of New Zealand’s most iconic brands. Deeply rooted in our DNA is our strong family culture and our desire to formulate the best place to work for our people. We’re in this for good. One team, all together for a better world. Bringing the right talent into our team, that align with our core values (Integrity, Respect and Dedication) is vital to our success.

Candidates must be able to pass pre-employment substance tests.