Graduate - Operations

Launch Your Career with Yili Oceania

Operational Graduate Programme – Starting February 2027

Ready to kick-start your career with one of the world’s leading dairy nutrition companies?

At Yili Oceania, we’re not just producing world-class dairy—we’re shaping the future of nutrition, innovation, and sustainable food systems. We’re looking for ambitious, curious, and driven graduates to join our 2027 Operational Graduate Programme and grow into the next generation of technical and operational leaders.

About The Programme

Our 18-month structured graduate programme is designed to give you meaningful, hands-on experience from day one. Based across our Oceania Dairy Ltd site in Glenavy and Westland Milk Products in Hokitika, you’ll step into real operational environments where your work truly matters.

Throughout the programme, you’ll rotate across key areas of our operations. This is your opportunity to get a deep understanding of how large-scale dairy manufacturing works—while building technical capability, problem-solving skills, and confidence working across teams. You’ll be supported by experienced professionals who are invested in your growth and development.

From improving processes and supporting engineering initiatives, to strengthening quality systems or enhancing supply chain performance, you’ll be involved in work that delivers real impact.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re excited to hear from graduates (or soon-to-be graduates) with a passion for operations, manufacturing, and continuous improvement. This programme is open to a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, food science, microbiology, quality, and supply chain.

More importantly, we’re looking for people who bring curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to learn—people who want to challenge themselves and grow.

Your Future at Yili Oceania

This programme is just the beginning.

At the end of the 18 months, our aim is to support your development and position you well for potential opportunities within the business, with clear career pathways ahead.Whether your strengths lead you toward a technical or specialist role, or you aspire to move into operational leadership, we’ll support you in building a career that grows with you.

Why Join Us?

Joining Yili Oceania means becoming part of a global organisation with a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. You’ll gain experience in advanced manufacturing environments, work alongside passionate and supportive teams, and develop skills that set you up for long-term success.

Key Details

The programme kicks off in February 2027 and runs for 18 months, with opportunities based in Glenavy and Hokitika.

Ready to Apply?

If you’re ready to turn your degree into a real career and make an impact from day one, we’d love to hear from you. Applications close on the 14th June 2026.

Apply now and grow with Yili Oceania.

Your future starts here.