Assistant Packaging Technologist
Date: 13 Mar 2026
Location: Mentone, VIC, AU, 3194
Company: Simplot
In Australia, the J.R. Simplot Company's core operations are food manufacturing and agriculture, encompassing potato, vegetable, seafood and sauce operations. We supply a wide range of frozen, shelf-stable and chilled products to major retail and foodservice customers in Australia and New Zealand. The Simplot Global Food business includes 17 food manufacturing and processing sites, serving retail and foodservice customers in 37 countries, with 8,000 people across North America, Latin America and Asia Pacific. Globally, the J.R. Simplot Company employs 15,000 people, driving innovation and excellence across diverse industries.
Within the Australian market, we are a leading provider of quality, nourishing and sustainable food, focussed on creating meals that maximises value from the best Australian-grown produce and global seafood. Our iconic brands have been an integral part of Aussie life for generations, and include Leggo's, Birds Eye, Edgell, John West and Chiko.
Culture and Benefits
At Simplot, we are fueled by our purpose: We Contribute to Feeding Our World. We imagine a better future and set goals to reach it. We are committed to working as one Simplot and are guided by our shared values:
- Respect for Resources
- Spirit of Innovation
- Passion for People
We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion. We care about creating an environment that promotes safety and wellbeing and where our people feel supported, respected and empowered. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination and are committed to providing equal opportunities for all our team members.
Simplot is passionate about cultivating a future where good ideas and inspiring possibilities have the chance to grow. We want our team members to build exciting and fulfilling careers with us and offer professional and personal growth opportunities.
The Perks
- Flexible working arrangements and a variety of engaging Health and Wellbeing programs
- Diverse Leadership Development Programs and Professional Development Support
- Employee Reward and Recognition Program
- Bonus incentives and discounted Health Insurance
- Sensory Club Program - Enjoy and taste our new product launches and access to our Culinary cooking sessions
- Novated Car Leasing Agreements
- Income Protection Insurance
- Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave
Simplot values the creativity and meaningful relationships that grow through face-to-face connection while also recognising the importance of flexibility for our team members. Our hybrid work environment includes four days in the office, with Wednesdays as our dedicated ‘Connect Day' bringing everyone together to strengthen our successful culture of innovation and collaboration.
About Our Role
As an Assistant Packaging Technologist, based in our Mentone office, you will support the development, validation and implementation of packaging solutions that enable New Product Innovation (NPI), Value Improvement (VI) and Sustainability initiatives.
This entry level role provides hands‑on experience across packaging development, trials, commercialization and technical systems. You’ll work closely with Packaging Technologists, cross‑functional teams and suppliers to help deliver high‑quality packaging outcomes aligned with Simplot’s strategic direction.
What You Will Do
You’ll play a valuable support role across packaging development and technical delivery:
- Support the development of fit‑for‑purpose packaging for NPI, VI and sustainability projects through the stage‑gate process
- Contribute to packaging evaluations, documentation, testing and regulatory requirements, including APCO guidelines and disposal labelling
- Maintain accurate packaging data, specifications and artwork information across internal systems and customer portals
- Assist with planning, attending, executing and analysing packaging trials and first production runs under the guidance of senior team members
- Provide technical support to internal stakeholders by gathering data, preparing information and helping respond to packaging‑related queries
- Help troubleshoot packaging issues by collecting information and contributing to early root‑cause analysis
- Manage low‑complexity packaging projects with coaching, including coordinating inputs, monitoring timelines and identifying risks or delays
- Support product change management (PCM) activities such as updates to existing products and renovation projects, and participate in continuous improvement
About You
- A tertiary qualification in Engineering, Science or a related discipline
- Exposure or interest in packaging, product development, food manufacturing or FMCG
- A general understanding of how packaging or products are developed, and a willingness to learn more about materials and processes
- Comfort working in team environments or structured workflows, with the ability to collaborate and follow clear processes (stage gate experience beneficial)
- Strong attention to detail, good organisation and comfort working accurately with data, documents and systems
- Confidence using digital tools and a proactive approach to learning new systems
- Curious, proactive and solutions‑focused, with a natural interest in how things work and the confidence to ask questions
- A clear and collaborative communicator who enjoys working with others and building positive relationships
Ready to Grow Your Career?
If you're curious, motivated and excited to grow your career in packaging, even if you’re still building your experience - we’d love to hear from you!
Applications close on Friday 10th April 2026. Simplot reserves the right to commence recruiting activity prior to the closing date.
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Job Requisition ID: 25475
Travel Required: None
Location(s): GF Chifley Business Park Office - Mentone
Country: Australia
Simplot is an equal opportunity employer and encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply. If you feel you would be a great addition to our team please apply online today, we would love to hear from you. If you require technical assistance, please email us at careers.contact@simplot.com