Factory Hand / Trainee Kitchen & Freeze-Dryer Operator

Factory Hand / Trainee Kitchen & Freeze-Dryer Operator 26 McMahon Street, Stoke, Nelson 7011, New Zealand Posted Sunday, 12 July 2026 at 10:00 am Factory Hand / Trainee Kitchen & Freeze-Dryer Operator Real Meals – Stoke, Nelson Full-time | 40 Hours per Week | Growth Opportunity Real Meals is a growing New Zealand food business producing premium freeze-dried meals for outdoor adventures. We cook every meal from scratch in our commercial kitchen, then freeze-dry, pack and ship them to customers around New Zealand and beyond. We're looking for a practical, reliable and hardworking person to join our production team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with food industry experience who enjoys hands‑on work and wants to grow into a specialist production role. About the Role You’ll work across our kitchen, freeze‑drying and packing areas, helping the team meet daily production targets while maintaining our high standards for quality and food safety. Preparing and weighing ingredients Assisting with batch cooking Loading meals onto freeze‑dryer trays Assisting with packing and order preparation Learning to operate freeze‑drying equipment Following food safety, cleaning and quality procedures Helping maintain a clean, organised production environment As the business grows, there will be opportunities to take on greater responsibility, including freeze‑dryer operation, stock control and potentially leading weekend production. About You You’ll ideally have: Experience in a commercial kitchen, food manufacturing, catering, bakery, butchery or similar environment Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality A practical, hands‑on approach and willingness to learn Mechanical or technical aptitude Good physical fitness, as the role involves lifting, carrying and standing for extended periods A reliable, team‑focused attitude Availability for occasional Saturday work and flexibility for future weekend rostering Chef qualifications are a bonus but not essential. What's in It for You? Full-time employment with a growing New Zealand business Training in specialist freeze‑drying and food production A positive, hardworking team culture The chance to create quality meals for people who love the outdoors Apply Now Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining: Your food or kitchen experience Why you’re suited to a physical production role Any mechanical or technical experience Join Real Meals and help create great-tasting meals for real adventures. 26 McMahon Street, Stoke, Nelson 7011, New Zealand #J-18808-Ljbffr