Technical Specialist - Data and Response

Zespri; Mount Maunganui; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remuneration package

Flexible work ethos

WFH & office

Zespri Day – extra leave

Office in Mount Maunganui with parking

Free kiwifruit

Job summary

Zespri is a leading global kiwifruit marketer seeking a Technical Specialist for Data and Response in Mount Maunganui. You will support the Pest ID Lab operations, ensure accurate identifications, and maintain critical pest and quality data.

The successful candidate will have a tertiary qualification or equivalent experience, plus knowledge of quality systems and strong data skills. Flexible work arrangements and an office in Mount Maunganui are offered.

Qualifications

• Candidate will hold a tertiary qualification or equivalent industry experience.
• Minimum 3 years in relevant industry roles.
• Experience with pest identification and quality systems.
• Strong data analysis capabilities and Excel proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Support Pest Identification laboratory day-to-day operations.
• Complete accurate and timely pest identifications for kiwifruit industry.
• Maintain pest records, specimens and training materials.
• Support Official Assurance Programmes and export requirements, esp. China.
• Collect, analyse and report pest, quality and traceability data.
• Coordinate stakeholders and manage information during incidents.
• Support residue risk management and document control.
• During peak season, participate in weekend on-call roster.

Skills

Pest identification

Quality systems

Data analysis

Excel

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Independent working

Education

Tertiary qualification in horticulture/food/science or related discipline

Or at least three years’ industry experience

Tools

Excel

Job description

Technical Specialist - Data and Response

Zespri is more than simply the world's single-largest marketer of kiwifruit. We like to think of ourselves as fruit on a mission and as rebels with a cause: to help people, communities and the environment around the world thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit. We are proudly the world's largest marketer of kiwifruit, selling kiwifruit in more than 50 countries. We work with around 2,800 New Zealand and 1,500 international growers and post-harvest companies to source the best-quality Zespri Kiwifruit which we supply through our distribution partners to wholesale and retail customers. We are one of New Zealand's best-known international brands, dedicated to creating sustainable long-term value for growers.

He aha te mahi? What's the role?

This is a 14-month fixed-term contract. The Technical Specialist – Data and Response role sits within Zespri’s Global Quality and Technical function and reports directly to the Orchard Quality Services Manager. The role is responsible for:

• Supporting the day-to-day operation of Zespri’s Pest Identification laboratory and Pest ID Programme.
• Completing accurate and timely pest identifications for the kiwifruit industry.
• Maintaining pest identification records, specimen collections and training materials.
• Supporting Official Assurance Programmes and export requirements, with a particular focus on China.
• Collecting, analysing and reporting pest, quality and traceability data.
• Coordinating stakeholders and managing information during quality incidents and investigations.
• Supporting residue risk management, continuous improvement and effective document management.
• During peak season, participation in a weekend on-call roster will be required to support operational and industry needs.

Ko wai koe? Who are you?

The successful candidate will bring a relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent industry experience, along with practical experience in pest identification, quality systems or data analysis. The successful candidate will also have:

• A qualification in horticulture, food, science or a related discipline, or at least three years’ relevant industry experience.
• At least one year’s experience in a Pest ID laboratory, Quality Systems or Data Analysis role.
• A sound understanding of quality systems and accurate record keeping.
• Strong analytical skills and confidence working with data and Excel.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to work independently while remaining flexible and collaborative.

Our people are what makes our culture so irresistible and uniquely Zespri. We are a passionate and mighty team of 850+ employees in 23 different locations globally. Working at Zespri is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, culture-driven environment unlike any other. We want people who share our values of making it happen, creating real connections, and leaving a legacy. Join us in shaping our future and be part of a truly unique organisation.

• Competitive overall remuneration package
• FlexWELL flexible work ethos; WFH & the office.
• Additional paid annual leave day per year (Zespri Day).
• Convenient Mount Maunganui office location, with free onsite parking.
• Your daily dose of Vitamin C with free kiwifruit!

Applications close 14 October 2026.

At Zespri, we understand the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences, and a fair hiring process is the first step to getting there. We want to attract a diverse range of people and encourage everyone from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments to take part in the recruitment and selection process by reaching out to our Talent Acquisition team via email at [e-mail].