Technical Team Leader at Mr Apple Careers site (Whakatu, New Zealand)
Mr Apple Careers site· Whakatu, New Zealand·
Role details
Job description
Be part of a business that uses world-class technology and machinery to produce and deliver premium apples to the world.
We are currently looking for a 12-month Fixed-Term Technical Team Leader to join our busy and forward-thinking team at our Whakatu Packhouse Night Shift team.
What you'll be doing:
If you're technically minded, enjoy problem-solving, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. As the Technical Team Leader, you will play a key role in overseeing the operation of our technology and supporting the efficient flow of fruit through the packhouse. Working closely with Production, Quality, Staffing and Line Team Leaders, you'll help ensure product quality, production targets, and health and safety standards are achieved throughout the shift. Your day-to-day tasks will include:
- Operating and monitoring the Compac electronic sizer and associated systems
- Completing packhouse start-up and shutdown procedures, including calibrations and system checks
- Monitoring carton weight, fruit size and quality data to maximise production efficiency
- Working alongside the Quality Team to ensure grading and sampling requirements are met
- Managing run changes, batch setup and system configurations to support production plans
- Monitoring production volumes and fruit flow, adjusting staffing and equipment speeds as needed
- Recording downtime and coordinating maintenance requirements with Engineering teams
- Promoting a strong health and safety culture and ensuring safe work practices are always followed
What you'll bring:
- You communicate clearly and effectively with a wide range of people
- You're confident using computers and enjoy learning new technology and systems
- You are proactive with strong attention to detail
- Experience in a packhouse, manufacturing, production or technical operations environment would be advantageous
- You have a strong commitment to health and safety
- Must be able to work night shift and support operational requirements during peak season
What we offer:
- Opportunities to learn, grow and impact change
- Work with industry-leading packhouse technology and equipment
- Grow a career in horticulture within a supportive team
- Gain valuable leadership and technical experience in a fast-paced environment
If you want to be part of a business that uses world-class technology and machinery to produce and deliver premium apples to the world, then please apply now!
Why work at Mr Apple Careers site
- Culture: Strong emphasis on being “one team,” with values of integrity, respect, diversity, and continuous improvement. The company celebrates difference and fosters a sense of belonging.
- Work Environment: Based in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, with roles spanning orchards, packhouses, coolstores, and a business support office in Whakatu. Roles range from hands-on seasonal work to professional careers in IT, finance, sales, marketing, logistics, and people & culture.
- Growth & Development: Strong commitment to “always growing” — both apples and people. The company invests in training and career development across all teams.
- Diversity & Inclusion: Actively embraces a richly diverse team, with a significant RSE programme bringing workers from Pacific nations. The Head of People & Culture leads a dedicated Health & Safety & Wellbeing team.
- Work Arrangement: On-site roles based in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. Roles span seasonal/casual (packhouse, orchard, coolstore) to permanent professional positions (IT, finance, sales, marketing, HR).
- Notable Perks: Being part of a globally recognised brand; working in a beautiful region; opportunity to work across the full apple supply chain; strong focus on employee wellbeing and pastoral care for seasonal workers.