Summer Student
Synlait · Dunsandel
About the role
Are you studying engineering, computer science or a related field and keen to see how technology works in a real-world manufacturing environment? We’re looking for a Summer Student to join our Operational Technology team at our Dunsandel site. This is a great opportunity to put your studies into practice, gain exposure to industrial automation and work alongside experienced engineers and technical specialists.
You’ll contribute to an automation improvement project while learning how control systems, industrial networks and production technology help keep a complex manufacturing operation running safely and reliably.
What you’ll be doing
- Supporting a defined automation improvement project from investigation through to completion.
- Learning how programmable logic controllers (PLCs), operator interfaces and process control systems are used in manufacturing.
- Gaining exposure to industrial networks and the technology that connects production equipment and systems.
- Helping review technical documentation, diagrams and equipment information.
- Working alongside engineering, maintenance, manufacturing and other technical teams to understand how different parts of the site operate.
- Learning how technical changes are planned, documented and tested safely.
- Presenting your project findings and outcomes to the Operational Technology team.
Summer student placement: The placement is anticipated to run from Monday 16 November 2026 to Friday 5 February 2027, subject to employee availability. The placement will provide practical experience to support your university studies and help meet your tertiary education provider’s work-experience requirements.
What you’ll bring
We’re looking for someone with a genuine interest in technology, automation and practical problem-solving.
- An interest in automation, manufacturing technology and understanding how systems work.
- Basic programming knowledge or experience with technical projects. Experience with Python, Ladder Logic or other programming languages would be advantageous.
- Strong attention to detail and a willingness to check your work.
- The ability to organise tasks, meet agreed deadlines and ask for help when needed.
- A collaborative approach and a willingness to learn from others.
About us – The Synlait Spirit
Synlait is more than a global leader in milk nutrition – we're a purpose-led team that’s Doing Milk Differently For A Healthier World. Our Synlait Spirit guides everything we do, from how we show up each day to the impact we create together. You’ll be joining an authentic, down-to-earth team that lives the three values that underpin the Synlait Spirit.
Be The Difference means we understand before we act – that means asking why, supporting each other to think differently, stay curious, and continuously look for smarter ways to deliver value. Whether it’s in the paddock, the plant or the boardroom, we’re driven by impact and inspired to make a meaningful difference every day.
We Move as One by working together with respect, trust and a shared commitment to doing what’s right. We collaborate across teams to deliver innovative solutions and create opportunity for those around us.
We feed the world’s most vulnerable, including newborn babies, so we have to be Right on the Mark. That means we take accountability seriously, act with courage and focus our energy on what matters most. We combine expert farming and state of the art processing to deliver high quality nutritional products to all over the world.
At Synlait you’ll be challenged and supported to grow. We know everyone brings something unique to the table so we’re an inclusive workplace, where diverse perspectives fuel innovation and success.
What we offer:
- Excellent parental leave with our Matua policy
- B CorpTM certified
- Social Club membership opportunities
What's next? Apply now!
Include your most recent CV and cover letter summarising your abilities and what you can bring to Synlait. We wish you the best of luck in your application. We encourage you to apply early as we will be reviewing applications regularly and may close the advertisement early. Together we will continue to create a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their best.
Applicants outside of New Zealand will only be considered if you have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.
Are you studying engineering, computer science or a related field and keen to see how technology works in a real-world manufacturing environment? We’re looking for a Summer Student to join our Operational Technology team at our Dunsandel site. This is a great opportunity to put your studies into practice, gain exposure to industrial automation and work alongside experienced engineers and technical specialists.