Laboratory Technician

About the opportunity

We are looking for a Laboratory Technician to join our Pulp team on a 12-month maternity cover contract based at our Whirinaki site, just north of Napier.

This is a hands-on role responsible for sampling, testing, and analysing the quality of our wood chip, water, and fuel. You will play a key role in providing accurate and timely laboratory data to support production performance, product quality, environmental compliance, and customer requirements.

Working as part of a small team, you will help ensure testing processes are carried out safely, accurately, and efficiently while supporting informed decision-making across our operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Sample, test, and analyse wood chip, water, fuel, and effluent quality.
• Monitor and report on wood chip quality and effluent treatment performance.
• Provide accurate and timely laboratory data to production teams and customers.
• Calibrate and verify mill instrumentation to ensure reliable performance.
• Maintain laboratory records and ensure data integrity.
• Identify and communicate quality trends, issues, and opportunities for improvement.
• Support environmental monitoring and compliance requirements.
• Assist with additional laboratory testing, monitoring, and project work as required.
• Adhere to health, safety, and quality standards at all times.

About us

We add value to our natural resources. Our business is renewables, and we have been a part of New Zealand’s bio-based economy for 50 years. We grow, process, and deliver quality radiata products to national and international markets. Sustainability and safety are the foundations of our business. We have a team of over 400 full time staff and 400 contractors. We care for our people, the environment and our community.

We offer

• A supportive learning and development environment
• Reward and recognition
• Wellbeing programme
• Retail discounts
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Family friendly events

About you

We are looking for someone who is detail-oriented and motivated to learn. Whether you're bringing laboratory experience or starting your career, you'll be keen to contribute to a manufacturing environment and support operational success.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• NCEA Level 2 (or equivalent), including at least one science subject
• Strong numerical literacy and an ability to work confidently with data
• Excellent attention to detail and a focus on quality and accuracy
• A willingness to learn and develop new skills
• Previous laboratory experience (advantageous but not essential)
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build effective working relationships
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team

Pan Pac is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people.