If you are mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and eager to work in a fast-growing industry, this Packing Technician / Machine Setter job in New Zealand offers a fantastic opportunity. Merck Animal Health, a global leader in animal healthcare, is seeking dedicated individuals to join its Upper Hutt manufacturing team. This role combines hands-on packing line duties with machine setup and maintenance, making it ideal for candidates with a manufacturing or production background. With permanent full-time employment, competitive pay, career growth, and a supportive workplace culture, this is a chance to grow your career in a global company committed to innovation and excellence.
About Merck Animal Health
Merck Animal Health (known as MSD Animal Health in New Zealand) is a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA. It is a global leader in animal healthcare, research, and innovation. With a strong focus on sustainability and improving the health of both animals and communities, Merck Animal Health develops, manufactures, and distributes vaccines and medicines that support food safety, livestock management, and companion animal care worldwide.
The Upper Hutt facility plays a critical role in producing animal vaccines for global export, ensuring high standards of quality, safety, and effectiveness. Merck Animal Health is known for fostering a collaborative, inclusive culture where employees are valued, supported, and encouraged to share innovative ideas. By joining the team, workers become part of an organization that invests in professional growth while delivering meaningful impact across the global food and agriculture supply chain.
Job Summary – Packing Technician / Machine Setter Role
The Packing Technician / Machine Setter role is a vital part of Merck’s Upper Hutt manufacturing operations. The position involves operating on packing lines, setting up machines, performing product changeovers, and ensuring production follows Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. It is suited for candidates with previous packing or manufacturing line experience and strong mechanical aptitude.
This role also involves writing and maintaining SOPs, investigating deviations, and contributing to continuous improvement processes. Successful candidates will need to demonstrate technical ability, strong communication skills, and the capacity to work independently while being part of a supportive team.
Key Responsibilities
As a Packing Technician / Machine Setter, you will:
- Operate on the packing line as a trained team member, following SOPs and GMP standards.
- Perform product and machine changeovers efficiently.
- Review, author, and maintain SOPs, batch records, and worksheets.
- Investigate deviations using problem-solving and technical analysis.
- Communicate effectively with teams and departments to maintain smooth workflow.
- Promote and adhere to strong Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) culture in all activities.
- Maintain high-quality manufacturing standards.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives in production operations.
Required Qualifications and Skills
To succeed in this role, candidates should have:
- Previous experience in a manufacturing or packing line environment.
- Mechanical aptitude, with machine setting experience preferred.
- Understanding of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
- Strong written communication, numeracy, and computer skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, SAP).
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.
- High attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Experience writing technical reports or deviation investigations (preferred).
- A strong commitment to safety and compliance standards.
Work Environment & Culture
At Merck Animal Health, employees enjoy a supportive, diverse, and inclusive work culture. Collaboration, respect, and innovation are core values. The Upper Hutt team embraces teamwork and problem-solving, ensuring all employees feel valued and empowered. The company is committed to environmental health, safety, and continuous improvement in every part of its operations. Employees are encouraged to share ideas and contribute to breakthroughs in animal healthcare.
Salary & Benefits
- Permanent, full-time employment.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
- Work in a global company with cutting-edge manufacturing standards.
- Supportive, collaborative team environment.
- Inclusive workplace culture with a focus on innovation.
Training & Growth Opportunities
Merck Animal Health is dedicated to employee growth. Packing Technicians / Machine Setters will receive training in GMP standards, equipment operation, and technical processes. With strong performance, employees may progress into senior technical, supervisory, or quality roles. Merck offers continuous upskilling, ensuring long-term career development in a global organization.
Job Type & Contract Details
- Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
- Location: Upper Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand
- Industry: Animal Health Manufacturing (vaccines)
- Schedule: Standard full-time hours with flexibility based on production needs
How to Apply
If you are interested in this opportunity, prepare your CV and cover letter and apply directly via Indeed.com. Please apply before the job posting closes on 09 November 2025.
👉 Apply for Packing Technician / Machine Setter Job at Merck Animal Health on Indeed
Why Join Merck Animal Health?
By joining Merck Animal Health, you will become part of a global company that values innovation, sustainability, and teamwork. You’ll work with cutting-edge technologies, gain valuable experience in animal vaccine manufacturing, and be supported by a friendly, inclusive team. Merck offers competitive pay, career development opportunities, and a chance to contribute to meaningful work that impacts global communities. For candidates passionate about production and technology, this role provides the perfect career path.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the job title?
Packing Technician / Machine Setter at Merck Animal Health.
2. Where is the role located?
Upper Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand.
3. What industry does this role belong to?
Animal healthcare manufacturing (vaccine production).
4. What is the employment type?
Permanent, full-time role.
5. Do I need previous experience?
Yes, previous experience in manufacturing or packing line operations is required.
6. What technical skills are preferred?
Mechanical aptitude, machine setting experience, and understanding of GMP.
7. What computer systems should I know?
Experience with Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and SAP is preferred.
8. Is training provided?
Yes, training in GMP, equipment setup, and production processes will be offered.
9. What is the application deadline?
Applications close on 09 November 2025.
