Research Engineer (Functional Aquaculture Feed Research) - HT2(1063)

As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT.

We are seeking a motivated Research Engineer to join our team at a newly established Research Centre in Animal Feed, a facility dedicated to aquaculture and animal feed research, production, and capability development. The role is responsible for the reliable, safe, and efficient execution of feed research and production activities, and serves as a key enabler of service delivery, project execution, and capability transfer for the Centre.

You will support the day-to-day running of feed production, testing, and development activities, while developing an end-to-end understanding of feed production, from formulation through to finished feed. This role is ideal for an engineer eager to gain hands-on experience in applied feed science and to help build operational excellence within a growing research environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Feed Mill Operations

• • Ensure the uninterrupted and efficient operation of the feed mill.
  • Plan and execute production runs for R&D, pilot, training, and service activities.
  • Oversee formulation execution, extrusion, drying, coating, and quality control.

Technical Excellence & Standards

• • Establish and maintain operational standards for formulation, processing, and quality control.
  • Ensure compliance with safety, quality, risk and regulatory requirements.
  • Support the commissioning, validation, and optimisation of upgraded equipment.
  • Conduct routine laboratory analyses (e.g. proximate analysis, basic quality checks).
  • Support sample preparation and data generation for feed and ingredient testing.
  • Maintain good laboratory practices and basic QA/QC procedures.

People & Capability Development

• • Provide hands-on leadership and mentoring to technical staff.
  • Transfer operational know-how and best practices to build a competent team.
  • Support the training and upskilling of staff involved in feed production.
  • Communicate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met.

Operational Integration

• • Work closely with the Centre Director on production planning, resource allocation, and prioritisation.
  • Support the Centre Director in the engagement of external parties.
  • Support the smooth integration of feed mill operations within the Research Centre’s broader project and service portfolio.
  • Any other ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisors.

Job Requirements:

• Have relevant competence in feed production, processing, or a related technical field.
• Have a degree in Food Science, Animal Science, Aquaculture, Chemical/Process Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience in feed milling, extrusion processing, or laboratory analysis (e.g. proximate analysis, QA/QC) will be advantageous.
• Strong hands-on, problem-solving, and team-leadership skills will be advantageous.