Line Shift Lead - Dryer

Role overview

This is a permanent full-time production leadership position based in Balclutha, near Dunedin in Otago, New Zealand. The role sits within a modern manufacturing site where the focus is on safety, product quality, operational improvement, and developing people.

The position calls for a capable and motivated line shift leader who can guide a team on shift, keep production running effectively, and uphold company standards across day-to-day operations. You will also serve as a technical point of reference within the production area and work with teams across Production, Engineering, Quality, Safety, and Logistics to support strong operational results.

Key duties

• Direct and coordinate shift activities so production, quality, safety, and performance goals are achieved.
• Support, coach, and develop Equipment Owners to strengthen capability and ownership.
• Promote a proactive safety culture by spotting hazards, logging incidents, and following through on corrective actions.
• Track production results and introduce improvements that lower losses and lift efficiency.
• Run effective shift handovers and keep communication clear across teams and departments.
• Contribute to troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement work.
• Make sure food safety, quality, and manufacturing requirements are met at all times.
• Keep production records, reports, and performance data accurate and up to date.
• Assist with maintenance planning and breakdown analysis to improve equipment reliability.
• Encourage the organisation's values and help maintain a positive, engaged, high-performing team environment.

Candidate profile

You should be a practical leader who enjoys working in a fast-moving manufacturing setting and has a genuine interest in developing people while improving performance.

• At least 3 years of experience in manufacturing supervision or team leadership is required.
• Experience in dairy, food manufacturing, FMCG, or another processing environment is strongly preferred.
• Working knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methods is important.
• A qualification in manufacturing, engineering, food technology, or a related area would be an advantage.
• You will need strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills are expected.
• You should be confident in problem-solving and making sound decisions.
• Good organisation and prioritisation skills are needed to manage shift demands.
• Ability to interpret data and use insights to improve outcomes is valuable.
• Comfort with computer systems, including Microsoft Office, is required.
• A consistent focus on safety, quality, and improvement is essential.
• You should be able to collaborate effectively across multiple teams and functions.

Organisation overview

Danone ANZ works across dairy and specialised nutrition for infants and adults and has been recognised as a Great Place to Work in Australia and New Zealand for several years in a row. The Balclutha site in South Otago uses advanced European technology to produce premium nutritional powders for customers in New Zealand and internationally.

The company places strong emphasis on employee growth and says this position offers real opportunities for career development, leadership growth, and exposure to modern manufacturing systems and practices.

Benefits

• Fully funded medical insurance for employees
• Complimentary life insurance
• Annual bonus opportunity
• 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution
• Employee Share Subscription Plan
• 26 weeks of gender-neutral paid parental leave
• Free yearly health checks and flu vaccinations
• Discounts on products and through retailer programmes
• Gym and café discounts
• Daily fresh fruit
• Continued learning and career development support

Diversity and inclusion

The workplace values different perspectives and aims to provide an inclusive environment where employees feel respected, valued, and able to contribute fully.

Application notes

Applicants are asked to submit a CV and cover letter. Recruitment agencies are not invited to apply.