If you are mechanically inclined and enjoy working in a dynamic production environment, the Packing Technician / Machine Setter job in Upper Hutt, auckland offers a rewarding career path. Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD), a global leader in Animal Health, is hiring a full-time, permanent technician to join its supportive manufacturing team. This role combines hands-on packing line work with machine setup responsibilities, offering excellent training, growth opportunities, and the chance to be part of an industry that directly contributes to animal health worldwide.
About MSD Animal Health – Part One
Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD), also known as Merck & Co., Inc. in the United States, is one of the world’s leading healthcare companies. With a strong presence in New Zealand, MSD Animal Health is dedicated to developing and producing vaccines, medicines, and technologies that improve the health and welfare of animals across the globe. Their innovative solutions support both livestock producers and pet owners, ensuring safe, sustainable, and efficient animal care.
In Upper Hutt, MSD operates advanced manufacturing facilities focused on producing high-quality animal vaccines for global export. These operations meet the strictest international standards, ensuring that products are safe, effective, and reliable.
About MSD Animal Health – Part Two
The company’s mission is to advance the science of healthier animals through innovation, quality, and care. Their values include collaboration, integrity, diversity, and sustainability, which are reflected in both their products and workplace culture. MSD is committed to supporting employees by providing training, growth opportunities, and a safe, inclusive environment where all team members can thrive.
By joining MSD Animal Health, you become part of a business that not only leads the global animal health industry but also invests in people, communities, and the environment.
Job Summary – Part One
As a Packing Technician / Machine Setter, you will work in MSD’s Upper Hutt facility, supporting the production of animal vaccines for global distribution. This role involves operating on the packing line, adhering to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards, and ensuring all work follows Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Your duties will include product and machine changeovers, setting up and troubleshooting packing line machinery, and reviewing documentation such as SOPs, batch records, and worksheets. Attention to detail is critical, as you will also investigate deviations and help maintain the highest standards of manufacturing quality.
Job Summary – Part Two
This is a hands-on, technical position ideal for candidates with mechanical aptitude and prior experience in manufacturing or packing line operations. Beyond machinery operation, you will actively contribute to continuous improvement, help foster a strong Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) culture, and ensure smooth communication across departments.
The role provides autonomy to manage your tasks while working within a collaborative team environment. With plenty of variety in daily work and opportunities to upskill, this is a career-defining opportunity for motivated individuals.
Key Responsibilities
As a Packing Technician / Machine Setter, your responsibilities include:
- Operating as a trained team member on the packing line.
- Following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.
- Performing machine setup, product, and line changeovers.
- Reviewing, authoring, and maintaining SOPs, batch records, and worksheets.
- Investigating deviations and applying problem-solving techniques.
- Ensuring all work complies with Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) requirements.
- Promoting a strong safety culture in all activities.
- Maintaining accurate production records and technical documentation.
- Communicating effectively with colleagues and departments to support workflow.
- Supporting continuous improvement initiatives in manufacturing processes.
Required Qualifications and Skills
Applicants must demonstrate the following:
- Experience in a manufacturing or packing line environment.
- Mechanical aptitude and preferably prior machine-setting experience.
- Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards (preferred).
- Strong written communication, numeracy, and computer skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, SAP).
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Attention to detail and strong organisational skills.
- Experience writing technical reports and deviation investigations (advantageous).
Work Environment & Culture
At MSD’s Upper Hutt site, you’ll join a friendly and collaborative manufacturing team that values innovation, diversity, and inclusion. The company provides a supportive workplace where employees are encouraged to share ideas, challenge conventional thinking, and contribute to problem-solving.
MSD fosters a strong EHS culture, ensuring all team members have a safe working environment. Their global reputation and commitment to excellence make this a workplace where employees can take pride in contributing to products that improve global animal health.
Salary & Benefits
The role offers a competitive salary package along with a comprehensive range of benefits. Employees at MSD enjoy:
- Permanent, full-time employment with a stable global company.
- Career development and training opportunities.
- Exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing standards.
- Supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
- Employee health and safety support, with PPE and resources provided.
Training & Growth Opportunities
MSD is committed to upskilling its workforce. As a Packing Technician / Machine Setter, you will receive training on GMP, machine operation, safety, and documentation practices. Career development is actively encouraged, with pathways to technical specialist or leadership roles within the manufacturing and operations teams.
Job Type & Contract Details
- Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time
- Location: Upper Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand
- Industry: Animal Health Manufacturing
- Requisition ID: R360836
- Job Posting End Date: 11 September 2025 (apply before 10 September 2025, 11:59 PM)
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply through MSD’s official career portal or via Indeed before the closing date.
📌 Apply Now on Indeed
Why Join MSD Animal Health?
Joining MSD means becoming part of a company that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence. You will gain global exposure in the animal health industry, develop new technical skills, and work in a facility committed to world-class standards. With a supportive team environment and opportunities for career growth, MSD provides more than just a job – it offers a long-term career in an essential and expanding industry.
FAQs
1. What is the role of a Packing Technician / Machine Setter?
This role combines packing line duties with machine setup, ensuring smooth vaccine production and compliance with GMP standards.
2. Do I need prior machine-setting experience?
Preferred but not essential – mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn are key.
3. Where is the role based?
At MSD Animal Health’s manufacturing site in Upper Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand.
4. Is GMP knowledge required?
Prior knowledge is preferred, but training will be provided.
5. What are the working hours?
This is a full-time role; shifts and hours are confirmed during onboarding.
6. Does the role include career development opportunities?
Yes, MSD offers training, upskilling, and potential progression into technical or leadership roles.
7. When does the job posting close?
Applications close on 11 September 2025, but you must apply before 10 September at 11:59 PM.
