Research & Development Internship (Expression of Interest) - AKL | Auckland

Job Description

The Opportunity

Goodman Fielder New Zealand is inviting Expressions of Interest from talented graduates to join our Dairy Research & Development team through the MBIE R&D Career Grant Programme.

This six-month internship offers the opportunity to work on meaningful projects focused on dairy innovation, product development, sustainability and process improvement while gaining hands-on industry experience alongside experienced R&D professionals.

** Please note: This is an Expression of Interest only. Any appointment will be subject to meeting MBIE eligibility requirements and successful approval of a joint MBIE R&D Career Grant application. **

What you'll be doing

You'll contribute to commercially relevant R&D projects, including:

• Supporting dairy product innovation and process improvement projects.
• Planning, conducting and analysing laboratory, pilot plant and factory trials.
• Analysing data and providing technical recommendations.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams across R&D, Operations, Quality and Commercial.
• Presenting findings and contributing to technical reports.
• Maintaining high standards of food safety, quality and scientific integrity.

About you

We're looking for curious, motivated graduates who enjoy solving real-world challenges.

Candidates must have:

Graduation Requirements 

• Recently completed a Master's or PhD qualification; and
• Submitted their thesis for examination, or completed all taught Master's course requirements, within the previous 12 months.

Work Eligibility

• Be legally entitled to work in New Zealand; and
• Be either:
  • A New Zealand citizen/ permanent resident; or
  • A graduate of a New Zealand university or tertiary education institution.

Industry Experience Requirements

Candidates must not have previously worked as a full-time employee in a role directly related to their field of study within the relevant industry, except for temporary, part-time or university-based positions.

What we offer

• Six months of hands-on industry R&D experience.
• Mentoring from experienced Dairy R&D professionals.
• Exposure to commercial innovation projects within New Zealand's leading dairy business.
• Development of technical, project management and commercial skills.
• Funding support (subject to MBIE approval and guidelines):

 About Us

We are a leading regional food company across Australia, New Zealand and Asia Pacific, delivering some of New Zealand's most iconic and trusted brands including Edmonds, Meadow Fresh, Freya's, Molenberg and Puhoi Valley.

We believe that success comes down to our people. We're driven by our values – We Grow Together, We Keep Things Simple, We Get Stuff Done – and we're committed to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. With operations spanning New Zealand and beyond, we offer real opportunities to grow your career across functions, brands and borders.

Ready to launch your career in Dairy R&D?

If you're a recent Master's or PhD graduate looking to turn your research into real-world impact, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now to register your Expression of Interest. Once applications have been reviewed, eligible candidates will be contacted regarding the next steps in the MBIE R&D Career Grant process.

Reference: MBIE funding reference in the JD (https://www.business.govt.nz/tax-and-money/innovation-funding).