Take charge of a small but passionate team in our Lab, helping Mr Apple lead the way in fruit quality testing and monitoring. You’ll be at the heart of the harvest season, ensuring our apples are picked at peak perfection and trials are run with precision. Your day-to-day will include: Assessing fruit maturity using lab equipment to determine orchard picking dates Leading and training your team to ensure consistent, accurate sampling and analysis Coordinating fruit maturity trials and audits across orchards and packhouses Managing lab documentation, SOPs, and calibration of equipment Liaising with growers, orchard managers, and external clients to deliver timely, reliable data Supporting food safety procedures including swabbing and sanitation testing Innovating lab methods and maintaining the Lab Manual What you’ll bring: A people-first mindset with strong leadership and communication skills Previous lab experience, ideally in horticulture or food production Confidence working with fruit maturity assessments (apples or other fruit) Solid Excel skills and attention to detail Eligibility to work in New Zealand and able to pass a pre-employment drug test What we offer: A rewarding role with room to learn, grow, and make a real impact A supportive team culture with extraordinary people Access to cutting-edge technology and industry-leading practices Close date: Sunday 12th October 2025