Packing Supervisor

About the Role

Based in Te Puke, Bay of Plenty, Addiction Pet Foods seeks a proactive and technically skilled Packing Supervisor to lead onsite packing operations within their manufacturing facility. This hands-on supervisory position involves active collaboration on the production floor, focusing on maintaining efficient packing line performance, promptly resolving equipment faults, and ensuring every product meets stringent quality and food safety criteria.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily packing processes to consistently meet production goals safely and productively.
• Track line efficiency metrics such as downtime, waste, rework, and output trends.
• Perform regular quality inspections covering pack weight accuracy, sealing integrity, labeling, and overall product presentation.
• Ensure consistent adherence to Standard Operating Procedures.
• React swiftly to deviations in production to minimize operational interruptions.
• Identify and execute opportunities for continual process improvements.
• Lead technical troubleshooting for mechanical and electrical issues on automated packaging machinery to reduce downtime.
• Conduct root cause analyses on recurring equipment failures, defects, and material waste, implementing corrective and preventive measures.
• Calibrate and adjust machinery controls for diverse packaging formats.
• Collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams for scheduled preventive maintenance and monitor equipment condition to preempt breakdowns.
• Promote best practices of basic equipment care including cleaning, inspection, lubrication, and tightening.
• Foster ownership among operators through autonomous maintenance initiatives.
• Manage inventory of packaging materials like films, bags, labels, and pallets, ensuring availability to prevent production delays.
• Coordinate with supply chain and procurement teams to address material shortages or discrepancies.
• Implement controls aimed at minimizing packaging waste and optimizing material handling.
• Enforce workplace health and safety protocols, including proper personal protective equipment usage and machinery safety checks.
• Support compliance with HACCP, GMP, FDA, and New Zealand Risk Management Program regulations.
• Investigate workplace incidents, performing necessary technical corrective actions.
• Maintain thorough documentation related to production, maintenance, quality, and safety.
• Ensure the packing area remains prepared for audits and meets hygiene standards.
• Lead, mentor, and coach packing operators and production technicians, managing shifts, breaks, and staffing effectively.
• Play an active role in recruitment, performance evaluations, identifying development needs, and training employees in safe machine operations and troubleshooting.
• Drive the growth of technical skills within the team, cultivating a culture of high performance.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is an approachable, hands-on leader comfortable engaging with machinery and production staff directly. They maintain composure during equipment breakdowns, thoroughly investigate issues, and take decisive ownership to resolve problems efficiently.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering, Food Science, or related fields.
• Three to five years of supervisory experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Proven expertise with automated packaging equipment or within food processing environments.
• Strong mechanical and electrical diagnostic and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience driving Root Cause Analysis, CAPA, preventive maintenance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Capability to coach operators and enhance technical proficiency within production teams.
• Excellent planning, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Sound practical knowledge of food safety, hygiene, quality assurance, and workplace safety practices.

Desirable Certifications

• HACCP or other recognized food safety certifications.
• Relevant workplace health and safety training.
• Mechanical Trade Certificate or equivalent technical diplomas.
• Certifications in Total Productive Maintenance or Autonomous Maintenance.
• Lockout-Tagout certification.
• Training in pneumatics and hydraulics troubleshooting.

Work Schedule

The role operates within a multi-shift manufacturing environment requiring flexibility to work across the following shifts:

• 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• 3:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
• 11:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.
• 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Why Join Us?

This opportunity allows you to take real responsibility for packing performance, machinery reliability, and team development in a growing food manufacturing business. Collaboration with various departments such as Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, and Product Development enables continuous improvement of product packaging and delivery. If you are a technical leader who thrives on hands-on problem-solving, team development, and enhancing production efficiency, we encourage you to apply and contribute to creating a safer, stronger, and more dependable packing operation.