VLS Field Technician

Kiwifruit Sample Collectors – Get Outdoors, Earn, and Make This Summer Count!

Keen to work outside, explore your local area, and do something a bit different this summer?
Verified Lab Services is looking for Seasonal Kiwifruit Sample Collectors to join our team from January to June - perfect for locals or working-holiday travellers who like early starts, fresh air, and good company.

You’ll spend your days walking orchards, picking kiwifruit samples, and driving between local orchards to help growers decide when to harvest. Some days you’ll stay close to home, others you will head out across the wider Bay of Plenty or Waikato. It’s hands-on, fitness-building, outdoors, and great to do with a friend or partner!

What you’ll do:

• Walk kiwifruit orchards collecting samples for testing.
• Drive between orchards during the day and drop them off to one of our laboratories or courier collection points.
• Use mobile apps to record your work and stay in touch with our support team.
• Start from home each morning – we will provide all the training, technology, gear, and support you need.
• Work in a relaxed, social team that values effort, care, and a good laugh along the way.

What we’re looking for:

• Reliable, safety-minded people who enjoy being outdoors.
• Tech-comfortable (you will use a company-issued phone and printer)
• Confident on the road and happy working solo or in a pair.
• Available 6 days a week, between 6 AM – 3 PM, rain or shine.
• A full, clean driver’s licence (VLS operates a modern fleet of vehicles, which are allocated).

The details:

• Locations: Coromandel Peninsula, Te Awamutu, Cambridge, Katikati, Tauranga, Te Puke, Whakatāne, Ōpōtiki.
• Contract: Seasonal Fixed Term, January – June (season dependent).
• Who can apply: NZ residents and working-holiday visa holders welcome.

It’s a great way to earn good money, stay active, and enjoy the summer outdoors.
Whether you’re teaming up with a mate or going solo, you will play a key part in bringing New Zealand’s kiwifruit to the world.

Apply now and make this summer one to remember - good work, good people, and plenty of sunshine and steps!

About Verified Lab Services
Verified Lab Services supports New Zealand’s horticulture industry by providing accurate and reliable sampling, monitoring, and testing services. Based in the Bay of Plenty and Northland, our energetic team helps growers succeed through innovation, accuracy, and care.

Got some questions about the role? Contact us on 07 573 8920 for a friendly chat or ask about one of our upcoming information days!