Danone Nutricia NZ is looking for a dedicated Dryer Operator to join our dynamic production team at our spray drying factory in Balclutha.
As a Dryer Operator, you will operate and monitor the industrial dryer system to ensure consistent production of powder products in compliance with Danone's technical and quality specifications.
You will also be required to uphold the highest levels of hygiene and cleanliness, with occasional involvement in cleaning operations.
As a Dryer Operator, your primary responsibility will be the operation and optimisation of the drying system to convert raw milk into infant formula powder. This includes precise control of drying parameters, monitoring product quality, and ensuring consistent output that meets Danone’s stringent specifications.
You will be a key member of our Production team involved in the commitment to achieving business goals through attentiveness, adherence to procedures, and effective teamwork.
This vacancy is a permanent full-time job, working in a rotating shift roster of 12-hour shifts, 2 days, 2 nights and 4 days off. Minimum guaranteed hours per week 42.
As a Dryer Operator, you will be responsible for initiating, operating, and shutting down the dryer system in alignment with Danone’s production protocols and quality standards. You will continuously monitor and control key dryer parameters—such as inlet and outlet temperatures, airflow, and feed rates—using the parameter run sheet to ensure consistent and efficient drying performance. Your role includes conducting regular sampling and performing functional testing of powder properties, including moisture content, solubility, and bulk density, to confirm that the product meets defined specifications. Based on test results and process feedback, you will make precise adjustments to dryer settings to maintain optimal drying conditions and product quality.
You will apply structured problem-solving techniques to address operational challenges and ensure smooth day-to-day production. As part of your responsibilities, you will issue and receive permits to work, coordinating maintenance and contractor activities safely within the drying area. Maintaining a high standard of hygiene and cleanliness throughout the factory is essential, and you will be accountable for achieving powder production targets, ensuring the correct manufacturing of products, and upholding safe work practices at all times.
About youTo be successful you will have:
- Proven experience operating industrial drying equipment in a food manufacturing or dairy processing environment.
- Strong understanding of process control principles, particularly in managing temperature, airflow, and feed rates.
- Familiarity with powder testing methods, including moisture content, solubility, and bulk density analysis.
- Ability to interpret run sheets and make precise adjustments to maintain product quality within specification.
- Sound problem-solving skills and the ability to respond effectively to operational challenges.
- Knowledge of permit-to-work systems and safe coordination of maintenance and contractor activities.
- Commitment to maintaining high hygiene and sanitation standards in compliance with food safety regulations.
- A proactive approach to meeting production targets and ensuring safe, efficient manufacturing practices.
We truly value our Danoners and strive to make their experience exceptional by creating a positive and fulfilling environment for everyone. Our unique benefits are designed to enhance the lives and provide genuine value.
- A high-performing, collaborative team culture
- Diverse and inclusive work environment
- Personalised learning opportunities to set you up for success
- Competitive Total Reward package including;
- Health, Life, and salary continuance insurance
- 26 weeks of gender-neutral paid parental leave
- Employee Share Subscription Plan after 12 months of service
- Performance-related incentives and annual reviews
More about Us:
At Danone, we aim to inspire healthier and more sustainable eating and drinking practices, in line with our Vision - Danone, One Planet. One Health.
We operate across four business lines: Essential Dairy and Plant-Based Products, Waters, Early Life Nutrition, and Medical Nutrition.
Our headquarters are in France, we have offices in 55 countries across the globe, and our products are sold in over 120 markets.
We have been around for more than a century and are the proud owners of some of the best-known brands worldwide, including favourites like YoPro, Activia, Aptamil and Karicare
Danone ANZ focuses on dairy and specialised nutrition products for infants and adults and is proud to be awarded the Great Place to Work accreditation winner for ANZ in 2022, 2023, 2024 & 2025 – a globally recognised program where we feature as one of New Zealand’s top places to work.
How to Apply
If this opportunity resonates with you and you’re eager to shape and define this role, then go ahead and seize the moment. Click on the APPLY button and share your resume with us before 29 August 2025.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)
We proudly affirm that we are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, and our ambition is to foster an INCLUSIVE & DIVERSE workplace where all Danoners can bring their uniqueness to contribute to business results. Our commitment to DEI ensures that all qualified individuals receive fair consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability at our company.
