Queen Rearing Beekeeper

About the Role At Comvita, we embrace the science of nature to support natural health and well‑being. We are looking for an experienced Beekeeper with strong queen‑rearing expertise to take on a specialist role within our apiary team. You will supervise the day‑to‑day operations of queen production, plan and coordinate breeding schedules, and manage results while maintaining a high standard of quality and safety. Your Day‑to‑Day Responsibilities Supervise and actively carry out queen rearing operations, including grafting, cell raising, mating, and queen introduction. Plan and coordinate breeding schedules and mating yard activities. Support selection and maintenance of breeder colonies aligned with breeding objectives. Monitor production outcomes and maintain detailed records. Supervise, train, and support beekeepers and seasonal staff. Allocate daily tasks and ensure work is completed efficiently and to a high standard. Maintain a strong team culture focused on safety, quality, and performance. Provide feedback and support development of team members. Conduct hive inspections and oversee colony health management. Ensure compliance with biosecurity and AFB regulations. Support wider apiary operations as required. Requirements Minimum 5 years of practical beekeeping experience, including queen rearing exposure. Experience with grafting and queen production techniques. Demonstrated ability to lead or supervise a team. Good understanding of bee behaviour and colony management. Ability to identify common pests and diseases. Physically fit and capable of working outdoors in all weather conditions. Strong attention to detail and record‑keeping skills. Full, clean driver’s licence (preferred). Willingness to undergo pre‑employment drug screening and consent to ongoing random drug testing while employed. Working Conditions Outdoor, physically demanding work environment. Exposure to bee stings and varying weather conditions. Weekend work may be required during peak periods or when operationally necessary. Seasonal workload peaks during spring and summer. Benefits and Compensation Competitive remuneration and benefits including: Opportunity to join a team passionate about doing business where people and bees can thrive together in harmony. Birthday leave – a paid day off for your birthday every year. Private health insurance – add your family members at a discounted rate. Life and trauma insurance. Frequent supply of Comvita products. Increased KiwiSaver employer contribution of 4%. Additional family benefits such as enhanced parental leave allowances. Comvita’s Commitment to Ethical Employment Practices Comvita is committed to upholding the rights of young workers and ensuring that child labour has no place in our operations or supply chain. We do not employ individuals under the age of 18 and strictly prohibit anyone under 18 from performing work that may involve hazardous conditions or materials. We do not tolerate the use of child labour or forced labour in any part of our business or among our suppliers. No child is to be involved in the production of our products or in the provision of materials or services to Comvita. Diversity and Inclusion Comvita is an organisation committed to well‑being, diversity and equity. We celebrate diversity and nurture belonging within our global team. We welcome diversity of people, ideas, talents and experiences. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us so we can support you through your recruitment journey. #J-18808-Ljbffr