Technical Specialist - Data and Response

Kō wai mātou? Who are we?

Zespri is more than simply the world's single-largest marketer of kiwifruit. We like to think of ourselves as fruit on a mission and as rebels with a cause: to help people, communities and the environment around the world thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit. We are proudly the world's largest marketer of kiwifruit, selling kiwifruit in more than 50 countries. We work with around 2,800 New Zealand and 1,500 international growers and post-harvest companies to source the best-quality Zespri Kiwifruit which we supply through our distribution partners to wholesale and retail customers. We are one of New Zealand's best-known international brands, dedicated to creating sustainable long-term value for growers.

He aha te mahi? What's the role?

The Technical Specialist – Data and Response role sits within Zespri’s Global Quality and Technical function and reports directly to the Orchard Quality Services Manager. The role is responsible for:

• Supporting the day-to-day operation of Zespri’s Pest Identification laboratory and Pest ID Programme.
• Completing accurate and timely pest identifications for the kiwifruit industry.
• Maintaining pest identification records, specimen collections and training materials.
• Supporting Official Assurance Programmes and export requirements, with a particular focus on China.
• Collecting, analysing and reporting pest, quality and traceability data.
• Coordinating stakeholders and managing information during quality incidents and investigations.
• Supporting residue risk management, continuous improvement and effective document management.
• During peak season, participation in a weekend on-call roster will be required to support operational and industry needs.

Ko wai koe? Who are you?

The successful candidate will bring a relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent industry experience, along with practical experience in pest identification, quality systems or data analysis. The successful candidate will also have:

• A qualification in horticulture, food, science or a related discipline, or at least three years’ relevant industry experience.
• At least one year’s experience in a Pest ID laboratory, Quality Systems or Data Analysis role.
• A sound understanding of quality systems and accurate record keeping.
• Strong analytical skills and confidence working with data and Excel.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to work independently while remaining flexible and collaborative.

He aha e tika ai a Zespri? Why Zespri?

Our people are what makes our culture so irresistible and uniquely Zespri. We are a passionate and mighty team of 850+ employees in 23 different locations globally. Working at Zespri is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, culture-driven environment unlike any other. We want people who share our values of making it happen, creating real connections, and leaving a legacy. Join us in shaping our future and be part of a truly unique organisation.
 

• Competitive overall remuneration package
• FlexWELL flexible work ethos; WFH & the office.
• Additional paid annual leave day per year (Zespri Day).
• Convenient Mount Maunganui office location, with free onsite parking.
• Your daily dose of Vitamin C with free kiwifruit!

Tono mai inaianei! Apply Now! Applications close 14 October 2026.

At Zespri, we understand the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences, and a fair hiring process is the first step to getting there. We want to attract a diverse range of people and encourage everyone from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments to take part in the recruitment and selection process by reaching out to our Talent Acquisition team via email at careers@zespri.com.

Agency

Zespri will not accept applications or contact from any temporary staffing agency, placement service or professional recruiter for this vacancy (“Agency”).

Where Zespri requires the support of an agency to fulfil a vacancy, we will proactively seek this support from our network of Agencies.  We respectfully ask that you do not contact Zespri or any of its affiliates/employees regarding vacancies, and reserve the right not to reply.

Zespri will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any fees, commissions or other payments related to such unsolicited resumes.