Leading Hand
Superior Pet Food Co. · 5001+ employees
What the role involves
- Coordinating packing
- Directing teams
- Monitoring quality
What they ask for
Previous production, packing, food manufacturing, or similar experience; leadership, communication, organization, problem-solving, food safety, and WHS awareness. Must be physically fit and able to lift, stack, and work extended periods on the floor.
- Manages people
About the job
Job Req ID: 2938
Business: Superior Pet Food Co.
Location:
Waikato, NZ, 3600
Employment Type: Permanent Full Time
Leading Hand
About Us Superior Pet Food Company (SPFC) is New Zealand based sales and manufacturing business dedicated to providing quality branded products to the New Zealand pet industry including Dog Food and Dog Treats from our base in Paeroa, in the Hauraki District. We make fresh every day and deliver throughout the whole of the country to Supermarkets, Rural Retailers, Vets and Pet Stores. Our brands are well established and have been made for over 50 years, our products are fed to all types of dogs from metro-doodles to working and hunting dogs. SPFC is a division of Animal Care and part of the EBOS Group. With almost 5,700 employees in 133 locations across Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia, EBOS Group is the largest and most diversified Australasian marketer, wholesaler and distributor of healthcare, medical and pharmaceutical products. It is also a leading marketer and distributor of recognised animal care brands. EBOS Group is publicly listed on the New Zealand and Australian stock exchanges.Job Title: Leading Hand – Packing Shed (Dog Roll Manufacturing) Location: 56 Grey St, Paeroa Full Time: (waged – 40 hours per week, plus additional) Managed by: Production Manager Superior Pet Food Co. is a New Zealand pet food manufacturer who proudly makes the market leading, shelf stable dog rolls, Chunky, Possyum, Field and Forest and Ranchmans here in Paeroa, and our delicious Chunky and Possyum Treats. We make fresh every day and deliver throughout the whole of the country to Supermarkets, Rural Retailers, Vets and Pet Stores. Our brands are 50 years old and our products are fed to all types of dogs from metro-doodles to working and hunting dogs. The role: The Leading Hand – Packing Shed is a hands-on leadership role responsible for coordinating the packing shed team during dog roll manufacturing. The role supports the Production Manager by helping organise workflow, allocate tasks, monitor output and quality, and ensure the team works safely, efficiently and to the required production standards throughout each shift. This position is based primarily in the packing shed and requires a reliable, capable and physically fit team member who can lead by example while working alongside the team. The Leading Hand helps ensure rolls are handled, packed, labelled, stacked and prepared for dispatch correctly, while maintaining food safety, hygiene, traceability, quality and workplace health and safety expectations. The role requires strong communication, attention to detail, good organisation, and the ability to keep the team focused during busy production periods. The Leading Hand is expected to promote a positive team culture, identify issues early, and escalate concerns to the Production Manager when required. Duties & Responsibilities:
- Coordinate day-to-day packing shed activities to support the agreed production plan
- Allocate tasks and provide clear direction to packing shed team members during each shift Work alongside the team packing, handling, stacking and palletising finished dog roll products
- Monitor product presentation, labelling, batch identification, carton counts and pallet quality
- Support quality, food safety, hygiene and traceability procedures, including completion of required checks and records Encourage safe work practices, report hazards or incidents, and participate in WHS processes including toolbox and WH&S committee meetings
- Assist with training, coaching and supporting new or less experienced team members Identify packing line delays, product issues, equipment concerns or staffing gaps and escalate as required
- Ensure cleaning, washdown, start-up and end-of-shift preparation tasks are completed to standard
- Promote teamwork, accountability and a positive attitude across the packing shed team
Skills & Competencies:
- Previous experience in a production, packing, food manufacturing or similar hands-on environment
- Ability to lead by example and maintain steady workflow in a busy production setting Clear communication skills and confidence giving practical direction to team members
- Strong attention to detail with product quality, labelling, counts, records and hygiene standards
- Physically fit and able to lift, pack, stack, push trolleys and work on the floor for extended periods
- Reliable attendance and flexibility to work additional hours during busy production periods when required
- Practical problem-solving skills and willingness to escalate issues promptly Understanding and proactive engagement in WH&S within the workplace
Reporting: This role reports to the Production Manager and provides day-to-day direction to packing shed team members during production. Working Relationships:
- Production Manager – manager, support and escalation point Packing Shed Team – day-to-day team direction, support and coordination
- Production Floor Team – coordination across production, processing and packing requirements
- Administrative Staff – for general support
Role Specific Performance Indicators:
- Packing shed output is achieved in line with the production plan Product quality, labelling, counts, pallet presentation and traceability records are completed accurately
- Packing shed staff are organised, supported and working safely
- WHS, hygiene, food safety and quality procedures are followed consistently Issues are identified early and escalated to the Production Manager where required
- Attendance, teamwork and communication support a positive and productive packing shed environment
Benefits This is a unique opportunity to work in a company where you are valued, given the recognition you deserve and suitably rewarded for your hard work. Other benefits include:
- Employee Share Plan;
- Company Paid Parental Leave;
- Employee Assistance Program for Mental Health Wellbeing;
- Staff Awards;
- Employee Referral Program;
- Health Insurance Discounts;
- And More.
EBOS Group are committed to developing and creating an inclusive workplace that embraces and celebrates diversity and inclusion. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from people of all ages, nationalities and cultures. Our commitment to inclusivity extends to supporting candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require any accommodations due to disability, please inform us by reaching out to HR@ebosgroup.com. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce enriches our organisation and contributes to our success. How to apply If you believe that you have the necessary attributes to succeed in this challenging and rewarding role, please click ‘APPLY’ now and submit your application. Pre-employment checks may be required and will be discussed with the successful candidate. We are unable to proceed with your application if your current visa restrictions preclude you from being able to perform the role in line with immigration laws. No agency assistance required.