Jack Link’s NZ is the No. 1 Jerky brand world worldwide. We manufacture high quality meat snacks supplying both local and export markets.

Due to internal team movements, we are seeking an experienced Development Technologist in food manufacturing space to join our Innovation team. Reporting to the Innovation Manager, the successful candidate will play a crucial role in supporting the development of new and existing products, R&D processes, and continuous improvement initiatives. As the Development Technologist, you will ensure compliance with food law regulations, oversee packaging projects, and work closely with the wider technical team to support and service the organisation.

Job Details: 7AM – 3:30PM Monday – Friday; 40 Hours Per Week; Permanent Full-time 

What you will be involved in:

• Lead and manage R&D interaction across all profile departments/business units to ensure successful NPD happens with maximum company clarity and buy-in
• Manage the development of new products/packaging in line with the company’s strategic objectives, customer requirements, and specific brand plan requirements within agreed timelines
• Effectively manage project work following Stage Gate process
• Modify existing products by internal processing modifications, attention to specification, modifications to formulations, etc.
• Assist the Innovation and Technical manager in product maintenance projects to help improve product margin
• Drive continuous improvements of product and packaging
• Ensure new product trials are planned and conducted efficiently and integrated to optimize operational expertise and minimize operational downtime
• Work with regulatory specialist to ensure all packaging artwork is compliant with FSANZ & other regulatory bodies as appropriate
• Work with Compliance to ensure new products present no quality or food safety issues within the stated shelf life
• Maintain and support R&D test kitchen equipment to ensure it is fit and suitable for its intended use.

In return, we offer the following benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Free on-site carparking
• Company life insurance & serious care health insurance for you and your family (children under 19 years of age)
• Conditional salary bonus
• Job security - we operated all the way through lockdowns
• A supportive team and an inclusive environment to work in
• Staff discounts on our Meat Snack Products!

Who are we looking for:

• Sound knowledge of ISO and HACCP quality systems
• Sound knowledge of NZ/Australia food manufacturing legislation
• Proactive and confident work style with a desire to roll up your sleeves and get involved.
• Computer literate.
• Relevant food-related tertiary qualification.
• Relevant food industry experience, experience in development of new products from concept right through to finished product.
• Previous product development & packaging experience is highly desirable.

What's Next?

If you are interested in this role, click "APPLY NOW" or send your CV directly to [email protected]. To discuss further about this opportunity, please email [email protected].

If you are a motivated and enthusiastic individual with a passion for food product development, we want to hear from you. Apply today to join our team and help us deliver the best possible products to our customers.

Jack Link’s NZ Ltd requires all applications to have eligibility to work in New Zealand. Successful candidates will be required to complete pre-employment checks which include medical test and a criminal convictions check.

Currently we are not accepting any overseas applications.