Research And Development Technician

Goodman Fielder New Zealand; Auckland; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Goodman Fielder New Zealand in Auckland invites applications for an R&D Specialty Fats and Cream Technician. The role focuses on laboratory testing, product trials and data analysis to support development and technical improvements across fats and cream products.

You will work closely with R&D, Quality and Operations, maintain records, and help drive safe, high-quality results. Prior dairy/fats/oils experience and strong analytical skills are preferred; Mandarin/Cantonese is an advantage.

Qualifications

• 2+ years’ relevant experience in laboratory testing, food manufacturing, quality or a technical environment.
• Dairy, fats and oils, or cream experience is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail and a methodical approach to testing.
• Good communication skills and confidence working independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and a willingness to learn new technologies.
• A desire to develop specialist technical expertise in R&D.
• Mandarin or Cantonese language skills are an advantage.
• NZ working rights and a current drivers licence is essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory testing, product trials and technical assessments across specialty fats and cream.
• Analyse results and maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Prepare samples and support product development, troubleshooting and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality and Operations to ensure product quality and performance.
• Follow laboratory procedures and maintain high standards of accuracy and safety.

Skills

Laboratory testing

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Independent and collaborative

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

We’re looking for an R&D Specialty Fats and Cream Technician to join our Auckland-based R&D team, working across Chelsea Sugar and Goodman Fielder Head Office.

Starting in January 2027, this role is ideal for someone with a few years of relevant experience in dairy, fats and oils, food science, laboratory testing or quality. This role offers the opportunity to build specialist technical expertise within FMCG.

This is a hands-on role suited to someone who is methodical, analytical and passionate about technical excellence.

You’ll conduct laboratory testing, run product trials and analyse results to support product development and technical improvements, working alongside experienced technologists.

What you will do

• Conduct laboratory testing, product trials and technical assessments across specialty fats and cream.
• Analyse results and maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Prepare samples and support product development, troubleshooting and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality and Operations to ensure product quality and performance.
• Follow laboratory procedures and maintain high standards of accuracy and safety.

What you will bring

• 2+ years’ relevant experience in laboratory testing, food manufacturing, quality or a technical environment.
• Dairy, fats and oils, or cream experience is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail and a methodical approach to testing.
• Good communication skills and confidence working independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and a willingness to learn new technologies.
• A desire to develop specialist technical expertise in R&D.
• Mandarin or Cantonese language skills are an advantage.
• NZ working rights and a current drivers licence is essential.

About us

Goodman Fielder is a leading regional food company across Australia, New Zealand and Asia Pacific, behind some of New Zealand’s most iconic and trusted brands, including Edmonds, Meadow Fresh, Freya’s, Molenberg and Puhoi Valley.

Our people are at the heart of our success. Guided by our values — We Grow Together, We Keep Things Simple and We Get Stuff Done — we work collaboratively to make everyday food better for everyone.

• Join an established FMCG Research & Development team.
• Develop specialist expertise in fats, oils and dairy.
• Gain hands-on experience supporting real product development and technical projects.
• Learn from experienced technologists in a supportive team environment.
• Build a strong technical foundation for your future career with Goodman Fielder.

Ready to take the next step in your technical career? Bring your experience, attention to detail and curiosity to Goodman Fielder and help us make everyday food better for everyone.