Laboratory Supervisor – Whareroa Site

About the role

Fonterra Te Mātāpuna is seeking a Laboratory Supervisor to lead its microbiology laboratory at the Whareroa site. This position offers a unique chance to develop leadership skills while ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality across one of New Zealand's largest dairy complexes.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of laboratory technicians, fostering a culture of best practice and continuous improvement.
• Maintain and enhance laboratory quality systems in line with Fonterra standards and regulatory requirements.
• Verify and interpret microbiological test results, ensuring compliance with MPI, IANZ and customer specifications.
• Drive change initiatives, manage projects and influence cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Oversee daily laboratory operations, including sample handling, testing, and data management.

Required profile

• Proven experience building, coaching and mentoring teams in a quality‑focused environment.
• Extensive knowledge of laboratory systems, processes and microbiology testing.
• Background in quality, food safety or operations within the dairy or food manufacturing sector.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to advocate for best practices with stakeholders at all levels.

Required skills

• Microbiology testing
• Food safety regulations
• Quality management systems
• Laboratory information systems

What we offer

• Rostered days‑only schedule (5:30 am – 5:30 pm) with a four‑days‑on, four‑days‑off pattern.
• Opportunities for career growth within a global dairy co‑operative.
• Collaborative, inclusive workplace that values diversity and innovation.