Graduate Product Development Technologist - 12 month Fixed Term
At Walter & Wild, we’re proud to be one of New Zealand’s leading food manufacturers, with a portfolio that includes some of the country’s most iconic brands: Vitasport, Vitafresh, Aunt Betty’s, Hubbards, I Love Food Co., Greggs, Hansells, Alfa One, Movenpick (NZ & AU), Killinchy Gold, NZ Natural, Zilch, Chateau and Horleys.
Are you a recent Food Science or Food Technology graduate ready to launch your career in the fast-paced world of FMCG? Do you get excited about creating new products, working with cross-functional teams, and seeing your ideas come to life on supermarket shelves?
We’re looking for a curious, enthusiastic, and detail-savvy Graduate Product Development Technologist to join our energetic and supportive Innovation / NPD team on a 12-month fixed-term role. You’ll gain hands-on experience across the full product development lifecycle – from concept through to launch.
What you'll get involved in:
Supporting the delivery of new and improved food products from brief to launch
Helping to prepare, taste, and trial product samples (and yes, you’ll be hands-on in the kitchen!)
Maintaining accurate product data, documentation, and specifications
Assisting with food safety and compliance processes
Collaborating across teams – including marketing, operations, and quality – to bring great ideas to life
Sharing fresh thinking and suggestions to improve the way we do things
About you:
A recent (or soon-to-be) graduate in Food Technology, Food Science, or a related field
Some exposure to food preparation, development, or lab-based work (through uni, placements, or part-time roles)
An understanding of food safety and quality principles
Strong attention to detail and good admin habits – you’ll be helping keep specs and data accurate
Comfortable using Microsoft Office tools and navigating digital systems
A natural team player who brings energy, curiosity, and a willingness to pitch in wherever needed
Able to manage shifting priorities and multiple projects with a can-do attitude
Why this role?
This is a brilliant entry-level opportunity where you’ll get real-world product development experience in a collaborative, down-to-earth team. You’ll be supported, mentored, and given the chance to grow your confidence, skills, and career in FMCG innovation.
Why join Walter & Wild?
We’re a proudly Kiwi company with big goals and iconic brands. We’ve got the scale to make an impact but still feel like a close-knit team.
At Walter & Wild, we take a bold, independent approach often choosing the path less travelled. We bring together people who are commercially savvy, care deeply about others, and thrive in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment. We value fresh thinking, stay curious, and adapt quickly. We're always looking for smarter, more innovative ways to move forward — and we make sure to enjoy ourselves along the way.