Production & QC Technician

Scientific & Technical Recruitment; Waikato; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Supportive culture

Hands-on learning

Career growth

Job summary

BioStart, based in New Zealand, seeks a hands-on fermentation specialist to join their growing bio-agri team. You will work with the QC/R&D Manager to learn BioStart’s processes, expand your skills in fermentation, quality control, and manufacturing, and progressively take ownership across production operations.

The role offers the chance to contribute to health and safety, continuous improvement, and cross-functional projects within a supportive Kiwi company focused on sustainable agriculture.

Qualifications

• Background in science, microbiology, fermentation or related field is highly desired.
• Tertiary science qualification and hands-on experience preferred; diverse backgrounds welcome.
• Experience with fermentation, GMP, ACVM or organic certification is a bonus.

Responsibilities

• Carry out microbial fermentation and manufacturing processes (hands-on).
• Carry out microbiological testing and quality control activities.
• Assist with production, bottling, labelling and packaging.
• Support production planning, stock management and logistics.
• Maintain manufacturing documentation and compliance requirements.
• Assist with formulation, R&D trials and process improvement.
• Contribute to Health & Safety and day-to-day site operations.
• Collaborate across the business to keep operations running smoothly.

Skills

Curious

Hands-on

Adaptable

Eager to learn

Education

Bachelor’s degree in science

Tools

GMP

ACVM

NetSuite

Job description

09th September, 2026

Based in Kerepehi, Hauraki, Our client is a highly respected, New Zealand-owned biological AgriTech company specialising in the development and production of a market-leading range of trusted biological farming solutions. Due to continued demand and organic growth, BioStart are now seeking a hands-on and adaptable fermentation specialist to join their thriving team as a Factory Production & QC Technician.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to join a supportive and highly capable team where you'll further your experience and exposure across science, microbiology, fermentation, quality control, Research and Development, manufacturing, and production.

The Role

This is a hands-on, varied role suited to someone who is curious, practical and keen to learn. Initially, you'll work in collaboration with their experienced QC/R&D Manager to develop your knowledge of BioStart's products, processes and manufacturing operations. As your capability grows, so will your level of responsibility, giving you the opportunity to take greater ownership across the operation and develop a broad skill set across production, quality, and R&D.

What you will do

• Carry out microbial fermentation and manufacturing processes.
• Carry out microbiological testing and quality control activities.
• Assist with production, bottling, labelling and packaging.
• Support production planning, stock management and logistics.
• Maintain manufacturing documentation and compliance requirements.
• Assist with formulation, R&D trials and process improvement.
• Contribute to Health & Safety and day-to-day site operations.
• Work collaboratively across the business and assist wherever needed to keep operations running smoothly.

What we're looking for

• Someone curious, adaptable and genuinely eager to learn.
• A practical person who enjoys being hands-on and getting involved.
• Someone comfortable asking questions and learning from experienced people.
• An interest in science, manufacturing, and continuous improvement.

Experience and qualifications

A background in science, microbiology, fermentation, biotechnology, chemical engineering, QC or a related field is highly desired for this specific role. A tertiary science qualification and relevant hands-on experience are preferred, however, BioStart is open to different backgrounds for the right person. Experience with fermentation, GMP, ACVM, organic certification or NetSuite is a bonus!

Why join BioStart

• Gain rich, hands-on exposure across science, manufacturing, QC, R&D and fermentation.
• Be part of an innovative Kiwi company contributing to the future of sustainable agriculture.
• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Enjoy a supportive culture where curiosity, collaboration, initiative and continuous learning are valued.

If you're seeking meaningful change that aligns with professional purpose this is your opportunity to take your career to the next level. Work alongside experts, learn from the best and play a key role in a growing business which is making a difference in sustainable agriculture.