INZ Accredited Employer

We are seeking experienced Machine Operator, to join our mussel processing factory in Havelock on Night-shift About the roleWe&#x27;re looking for motivated individuals with at least 6 months experience in a Machine Operator role in a mussel factory. You could be working across any of the different departments:<ul><li>AMOs (Automated Mussel Openers): Automate the mussel opening process to reduce manual handling and increase efficiency.</li><li>Forklifts &amp; trucks: Transport raw materials and finished products safely and efficiently across the facility.</li><li>Bagging machines: Package products while maintaining hygiene and quality standards.</li><li>Pressure cookers: Used in mussel meat production to speed up cooking and shell removal.</li><li>Cabin plant equipment: Maintains a controlled environment to ensure the safety and quality of perishable goods.</li><li>Meat line blanchers: Begin the mussel meat processing phase by enhancing food safety and extending product shelf life.</li></ul> Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time (Night-Shift)Working Hours: 45 hours per week guaranteed working Monday - SaturdayPay Rate: $26 - $30.25 per hour (depending on experience)Location: Must be based in Marlborough region and have reliable transportation. You will:<ul><li>Operate machinery safely and efficiently in line with procedures.</li><li>Support production by ensuring smooth equipment performance.</li><li>Work with machines such as AMOs, forklifts, pressure cookers, bagging machines, or blanchers.</li><li>Report maintenance issues promptly and keep your work area clean.</li><li>Contribute to a high-performing, safety-focused team.</li></ul> What we&#x27;re looking for:<ul><li>Have a minimum of 6 months experience operating machinery or working in a processing&#x2F;manufacturing environment.</li><li>Safety-conscious with strong attention to detail.</li><li>Can follow standard procedures and report issues promptly.</li><li>Work well in a team and communicate clearly.</li><li>Are flexible and willing to work across different departments or shifts as needed.</li><li>Must be based in Marlborough region and have reliable transportation as the factory is in havelock, which is 40km out of Blenheim.</li></ul> Interested? Know someone who might be? Click Apply Now!For consideration you will need to be eligible to work in New Zealand. As part of our recruitment process pre-employment checks may include a criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing and a medical assessment.

Sanford

Machine Operator

Meals Provided

Trade the ordinary 9-5 for a career at seaWork aboard Sanford&#x27;s deep-water fishing fleet on structured rotations of 6–12 weeks at sea, followed by 6 weeks off at home between trips. With meals provided, Wi-Fi onboard, and the opportunity to work across both seafood processing and deck operations, no two days are the same. Whether you&#x27;re looking for a career change, enjoy physical hands-on work, or want to experience a unique way of life, this is your chance to work on one of New Zealand&#x27;s largest deep-water fishing fleets. This is an Independent Contractor (self-employment) role based out of Timaru or Tauranga. As a General Hand, you&#x27;ll spend most of your time in the onboard processing factory preparing seafood to world-class quality standards, while also assisting with deck operations when required. Every vessel is different, giving you the opportunity to learn a variety of skills across our fleet. Vessel availabilityWe&#x27;re currently recruiting General Hands for upcoming opportunities across our deep-water fleet. With vessel positions filling quickly towards the end of the year, some successful applicants may not be required to join a vessel until the New Year (2027). We encourage you to apply now, as we&#x27;ll continue progressing suitable candidates through our recruitment process and building our crew pool for upcoming voyages. Opportunities may also arise earlier depending on operational requirements and crew availability. Factory TrawlersOur factory trawlers feature large onboard processing factories where seafood is sorted, filleted, packed and frozen while still at sea. You&#x27;ll rotate through different processing areas including trimming, packing, freezer work and weigh stations, while assisting on deck as required. LonglinersLonglining combines the best of both worlds, with time spent both on deck and in the processing factory. You&#x27;ll help haul and reset longlines, sort and clean the catch, bait hooks, process seafood to export quality standards, and keep work areas clean and organised. Every day is varied, with the role changing as fishing operations and processing requirements progress. Scampi VesselsScampi operations combine precision processing with deck work. You&#x27;ll assist with trawl operations, carefully sort and pack premium scampi, maintain high product quality standards and help keep processing areas clean and organised. Please note: Vessel allocation depends on operational requirements and availability. What we&#x27;re looking for:You don&#x27;t need previous fishing experience - we&#x27;re looking for people with the right attitude. You&#x27;ll be someone who has:<ul><li>Proven ability to handle the physical and mental demands of the role and life at sea</li><li>Get along with people from all walks of life and a team-player mindset</li><li>Experience in seafood processing, deck work, or maritime operations is an advantage but not essential</li><li>Awareness of health, safety, and hygiene standards in a workplace</li><li>Resilience, adaptability, and stamina to handle life at sea</li></ul> About SanfordSanford operates one of New Zealand&#x27;s largest deep-water fishing fleets, with 13 vessels working from Cape Reinga to the Ross Sea. Our crews catch, process and package premium seafood onboard before it reaches customers around the world. With more than 1,500 employees across New Zealand, we&#x27;re proud to be one of the country&#x27;s leading seafood companies. Been referred by a Mate?If you&#x27;ve been referred by someone currently working or engaged with Sanford, include their name in your application to be eligible for our Refer-a-Mate rewards. Terms and conditions apply. Previously worked with Sanford?If you&#x27;ve worked on our vessels within the last two years, we&#x27;d love to hear from you. Contact Natalie directly at <a href="mailto:ncairns@sanford.co.nz" target="_blank">ncairns@sanford.co.nz</a> as a simplified application process may be available. You must be eligible to work in New Zealand. Our recruitment process includes pre-engagement checks including criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing, and a medical assessment.

Deep Sea Fishing Crew - Seafood Processing (Independent Contractor)

Sanford is looking for an experienced Factory Engineer to join our Engineering Maintenance team based in Havelock, Marlborough.If you’re a hands-on engineer who enjoys fault finding, solving problems and keeping machinery running, this is an opportunity to put those skills to work in the heart of a busy seafood processing operation. About the role Our Havelock mussel processing factory is a fast-paced production environment, and keeping our plant and machinery running safely, reliably and efficiently is critical to what we do. As a Factory Engineer, you’ll work closely with our engineering and production teams, responding to breakdowns, carrying out preventative maintenance and finding practical solutions to keep production moving. There’s a strong focus on preventative maintenance, but when something does go wrong, you’ll need to be comfortable getting hands-on, fault finding and getting equipment back up and running. What you’ll be doing You’ll work across a variety of mechanical equipment and machinery, giving you plenty of opportunity to use your existing skills while building your knowledge of our plant and production environment. You’ll be responsible for:<ul><li>Maintaining, repairing and troubleshooting production equipment and plant.</li><li>Carrying out preventative maintenance and equipment inspections.</li><li>Diagnosing faults and responding to breakdowns.</li><li>Working across pumps, motors, gearboxes, conveyors, valves and other mechanical equipment.</li><li>Completing mechanical fitting, welding and fabrication work.</li><li>Supporting shutdowns, projects and equipment upgrades.</li><li>Keeping accurate maintenance records and identifying recurring issues.</li><li>Working closely with production, quality and engineering teams.</li><li>Contributing to improvements in equipment reliability, safety and performance.</li><li>Accurate maintenance records, communication between shifts and working around the production plan are also important parts of the role.</li></ul> What you’ll bring We’re looking for someone who is practical, reliable and comfortable getting stuck in within a busy factory environment. Ideally, you’ll bring:<ul><li>A Mechanical Engineering trade qualification or equivalent.</li><li>At least 3 years’ experience in factory or industrial maintenance, ideally within manufacturing, food or beverage.</li><li>Strong mechanical skills, including experience with rotating machinery, hydraulics and pneumatics.</li><li>Strong fault-finding and problem-solving skills.</li><li>Experience working with automated production equipment.</li><li>Welding and fabrication experience would be an advantage.</li><li>A strong focus on safety and attention to detail.</li><li>The ability to work independently and as part of a team.</li><li>Flexibility to work Saturdays, overtime or support other shifts when required.</li></ul> Why Sanford? Based in Havelock, at the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds, you’ll be joining one of New Zealand’s leading seafood businesses and working right at the heart of our processing operation. This is a role where you can see the impact of your work every day. When production is moving, machinery is performing and problems are being prevented before they turn into breakdowns, you’ve played a direct part in making that happen. If you enjoy being hands-on, solving problems and working in an environment where good engineering really matters, we’d like to hear from you.For consideration, you will need to be eligible to work in New Zealand. Pre-employment checks may include a criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing and a medical assessment.

Factory Engineer

ACCOMMODATION_PROVIDED

Live and work in one of New Zealand&#x27;s most unique coastal locations.If you&#x27;re looking to swap traffic and city life for fresh sea air, incredible scenery and a close-knit community, this could be the opportunity you&#x27;ve been waiting for. Based on Stewart Island, you&#x27;ll work Sunday to Thursday, with accommodation provided, giving you the chance to fully immerse yourself in island life while enjoying your weekends to explore everything the region has to offer. Travel to and from Stewart Island can also be supported aboard Sanford&#x27;s vessel, the Hauraki, from Bluff when required, making the commute easier. As Farm Boat Skipper, you&#x27;ll play an essential role in supporting Sanford&#x27;s mussel farming operations, ensuring a consistent supply of mussels to our Havelock Processing Plant. Working alongside an experienced aquaculture team, you&#x27;ll combine vessel operations, farm maintenance and harvesting activities to help keep our farms operating safely and efficiently.What you&#x27;ll be doing No two days are exactly the same, but you&#x27;ll be responsible for:<ul><li>Skippering the farm line boat in accordance with Safe Ship Management (SSM) requirements.</li><li>Supporting daily harvesting, reseeding and spat seeding operations.</li><li>Maintaining farm infrastructure, including farm lines and mooring systems.</li><li>Completing vessel maintenance and basic engineering tasks.</li><li>Identifying and reporting equipment or vessel issues.</li><li>Working alongside the wider aquaculture team to ensure safe, productive operations.</li><li>Providing support across other marine farming activities when required.</li></ul> What we&#x27;re looking forYou&#x27;ll bring practical experience, a strong safety focus and enjoy working in a hands-on outdoor environment. Ideally you&#x27;ll have:<ul><li>Commercial Launch Master (CLM) qualification</li><li>Basic Engineering Ticket</li><li>Experience skippering commercial vessels</li><li>Aquaculture or marine farming experience</li><li>Strong mechanical aptitude and vessel maintenance skills</li><li>A commitment to safe work practices</li><li>The ability to work in a marine environment and adapt to changing weather conditions</li><li>A positive, team-first attitude</li></ul> Why Sanford?This is more than just another skipper role. It&#x27;s an opportunity to build your career while enjoying a lifestyle that&#x27;s difficult to find elsewhere. You&#x27;ll join a supportive team, work in New Zealand&#x27;s world-class aquaculture industry, and experience everything Stewart Island has to offer, from incredible fishing and hunting to native wildlife, untouched landscapes and a genuine sense of community. Accommodation is provided while you&#x27;re based on Stewart Island, with a Sunday to Thursday roster allowing you to enjoy your weekends.For consideration, you must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand. As part of our recruitment process, pre-employment checks will include a criminal history check, medical assessment, and drug and alcohol testing .

Aquaculture Farm Boat Skipper - Big Glory Bay, Stewart Island

As a Qualified Deckhand , you&#x27;ll be hands-on ensuring smooth operations on deck, working across our diverse fleet of vessels located in Timaru or Tauranga. Your responsibilities include handling fishing gear, preparing the vessel for fishing activities, assisting with the catch processing, and maintaining equipment to meet quality and safety standards. You&#x27;ll be involved in trawl setup, hauling, and shooting gear, performing deck duties like line handling and winch operation, as well as conducting repairs such as net mending and rope splicing. Supporting factory operations on board and participating in safety drills are important parts of the role. This is an Independent Contractor role (self-employment) where our vessels are located in Timaru and Tauranga. You are normally expected to work 12 weeks on and 6 weeks off (some vessels are 6 weeks on&#x2F;6 weeks off) while enjoying endless amounts of food, staying connected with Wi-Fi, and earning all year-round. Responsibilities: <ul><li>Assist in trawl set-up, hauling, and shooting gear to ensure efficient fishing operations.</li><li>Perform deck duties including handling lines, operating winches, and keeping the deck organised and safe.</li><li>Conduct repairs and maintenance on fishing gear and vessel equipment, including net mending and rope splicing.</li><li>Load and unload supplies and catch, ensuring proper handling and storage.</li><li>Support fish processing and packing on deck or in the factory, ensuring compliance with product quality standards.</li><li>Participate actively in safety drills and emergency procedures, maintaining knowledge of muster points.</li><li>Follow safety protocols and wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as hard hats, gumboots, wet weather gear, hearing protection, life jackets, and thermal clothing.</li><li>Ensure all deck gear and equipment are properly maintained and secured to prevent hazards, especially during rough weather.</li><li>Take on watch duties when required, supporting the Skipper and First Mate.</li></ul> About you: You are adaptable and resilient, thriving in the dynamic and sometimes challenging environment at sea. You work well within a close-knit team and practice self-discipline to maintain safety and operational standards. Physically and mentally prepared for long hours and demanding work, you take pride in your quality of work and attention to detail. You&#x27;re eager to develop your skills further and grow into senior roles on board. What we&#x27;re looking for : <ul><li>Advanced Deckhand Fishing Certification (ADH-F) or equivalent qualification.</li><li>Proven experience working on fishing vessels or other maritime roles.</li><li>Practical skills in deck operations including net mending, rope splicing, and operation of deck machinery.</li><li>Proven ability to handle the physical and mental demands of life at sea.</li><li>Current Maritime medical certification or the ability to obtain one.</li></ul> Been referred by a Mate? Have you been recommended by someone currently working or engaged with Sanford? We know great people refer great people—and we&#x27;re always keen to welcome high-quality crew through trusted referrals. To be eligible for our Refer-a-Mate rewards , be sure to include the name of the person who referred you when you apply.Terms and conditions apply - refer to the DWF Referral Scheme Policy via the People and Culture team. Sanford offers endless opportunities, with a diverse team of over 1500 people working in various roles, including remote locations like the seas surrounding Antarctica. Join us to deliver the highest quality seafood to plates worldwide.You must be eligible to work in New Zealand. Our recruitment process includes pre-engagement checks including criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing, and a medical assessment.

Qualified Deck Hand (QFD)

Join our deep-water fleet - 13 vessels fishing year-round from Cape Reinga to the Ross Sea. Our crews work at sea for 6-12 weeks at a time, catching, processing, and packaging premium New Zealand seafood that&#x27;s enjoyed around the world. As a Marine Engineer , you&#x27;ll play a vital role in keeping our vessels running at their best. Working aboard scampi vessels, trawlers, or longliners, you&#x27;ll be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the vessel&#x27;s engineering, mechanical, and electrical systems. You&#x27;ll collaborate closely with the Skipper and crew to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operations - all while helping deliver world-class seafood. With vessels operating from ports including Timaru and Tauranga, you&#x27;ll be part of a values-driven team where people are our most important asset. This is an Independent Contractor opportunity , based on a 6 weeks on &#x2F; 6 weeks off rotation . To support you, Sanford covers the cost of travel to and from the vessel for each swing within New Zealand. Responsibilities: <ul><li>Ensure optimal functioning of all marine engineering systems, including diesel-electric propulsion and electric trawl winches, through regular maintenance and repair.</li><li>Troubleshoot, identify, and resolve technical issues promptly to ensure smooth operations throughout fishing voyages.</li><li>Work proactively to maximise fuel efficiency and reduce the vessel&#x27;s environmental impact.</li><li>Maintain and enforce health and safety protocols, ensuring all engineering systems are routinely inspected and compliant with maritime safety regulations.</li></ul> About you: <ul><li>Hold a Minimum MEC 5 or MEC 4 Certificate of Competency (or equivalent).</li><li>Proficient in marine engineering systems with preferred experience in diesel-electric propulsion and trawl winch operations.</li><li>Demonstrated experience in maintaining and repairing marine vessels, including ammonia or refrigerant-based freezing systems.</li><li>Good understanding of New Zealand maritime and operational regulations including MOSS, HSWA, Fisheries Act, and MPI food safety.</li><li>Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to perform effectively in isolated and challenging sea-based environments.</li></ul> About the fleet: Sanford operates a diverse fleet of deepwater and scampi vessels, delivering premium seafood to international markets.Our deepwater fleet includes six vessels—San Waitaki, San Enterprise, San Discovery, San Granit, San Aspiring, and San Aotea II—primarily operating in the Southern Ocean on voyages lasting up to six to eight weeks. These vessels target species such as hoki, orange roughy, squid, ling, and Antarctic toothfish. Our vessels are highly versatile, processing and freezing products onboard to export standards, including H&amp;G, fillets, squid tubes, fishmeal, and fish oil.Sanford also operates a scampi fleet of seven smaller deep-sea trawlers—Albatross II, Drysdale, Venture K, San Tangaroa, San Aramand, San Tongariro and San Koura Rangi. These vessels target scampi across New Zealand waters, freezing and packing product at sea before delivery to Bluff, Timaru, or direct export from Tauranga. You must be eligible to work in New Zealand. Our recruitment process includes pre-engagement checks including criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing, and a medical assessment.

Marine Engineers - Deepwater Fishing Vessels

We are looking for Factory Processing Workers to join our processing team based in Havelock! Why work with us? <ul><li>Location : Nestled in the stunning Marlborough Sounds, you&#x27;ll be working in the picturesque town of Havelock, known as the &quot;Green-Lipped Mussel Capital of the World.&quot;</li><li>Consistent hours : Enjoy steady work with a Monday-Friday schedule (optional Saturdays), 45 hours a week</li><li>Growth opportunities : Develop new skills with on-the-job training.</li><li>Great pay : Starting rates of $24.75 - $30.00 dependent on the role</li></ul> Accommodation available: Accommodation is available, making it easier for those looking to relocate to the Marlborough region. About the role: Our Factory Processing Worker role plays a vital part in processing our mussel products:Mussel grader: <ul><li>Inspect and grade mussels to ensure top quality for processing.</li><li>Attention to detail is key to maintaining our high standards.</li></ul>Mussel packer: <ul><li>Package mussels for export, ensuring every product meets quality standards.</li><li>Contribute to keeping our mussels fresh and ready for the world to enjoy.</li></ul>Mussel opener: <ul><li>Open mussels while ensuring minimal waste and maintaining product integrity.</li><li>Adhere to hygiene and safety protocols during processing.</li></ul>Utilities: <ul><li>Assist with general maintenance and cleaning of equipment and work areas.</li><li>Support the operation of various machines as needed.</li></ul>Logistics operator: <ul><li>Assist in the loading and unloading of goods for transport.</li><li>Coordinate with the logistics team to ensure timely dispatch and delivery.</li></ul> What you&#x27;ll bring: <ul><li>A great attitude and eagerness to be part of a fun, hard-working team.</li><li>Physical fitness for hands-on work in a fast-paced environment.</li><li>Attention to detail and a commitment to quality and safety.</li><li>Willingness to learn —no experience required!</li></ul> Bonus : Havelock is the perfect base to explore Marlborough&#x27;s stunning landscapes, world-class wineries, and outdoor adventures.For consideration you will need to be eligible to work in New Zealand. As part of our recruitment process pre-employment checks may include criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing and a medical assessment.

Factory Processing Worker

Sanford operates a fleet of specialist scampi vessels targeting scampi throughout New Zealand waters, with all catch processed, frozen, and packed at sea to maximise product quality and value. The fleet includes Albatross II, Drysdale, Venture K, San Tangaroa, San Aramand, San Tongariro, and the newest addition, San Koura Rangi (San KR). Several vessels, including Albatross II, Drysdale, Venture K, San Tangaroa, and San Koura Rangi undertake fishing voyages of up to six weeks, operating primarily around the Chatham Rise, Chatham Islands, and Auckland Islands. Product from these trips is typically landed into Bluff and Timaru for further processing. The San Aramand operates shorter voyages of up to four weeks, fishing off the east coast of the Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, and Wairarapa coast. The San Tongariro has recently transitioned from inshore operations and now forms part of the Wildcatch fleet, contributing to offshore scampi operations. As the Mate , you will have the opportunity to support the Skipper with operations on one of these sought-after scampi vessels. The vessels are located in Timaru and one in Tauranga and have a strong values-led culture, where people are the operation’s most important asset. These positions are rare and infrequent in our industry, so if you are already a Mate looking for a change in vessel, or becoming a Mate is the next step in your career development, this might be the opportunity for you.This is an Independent Contractor role on a 6 weeks on - 6 weeks off rotation. Travel to and from Timaru, Tauranga or Invercargill is covered by Sanford. Responsibilities: <ul><li>Support the daily operations on the vessel, ensuring crew are working efficiently and safely.</li><li>Assist with navigation, monitoring weather conditions, accurate record keeping and bridge watchkeeping.</li><li>Work with the crew to ensure scampi packing is completed efficiently and to high standards.</li><li>Ensure that all safety regulations and protocols are followed while maintaining compliance requirements.</li><li>Foster a positive and productive work environment, ensuring clear and effective communication across the crew.</li></ul> About you: You will be an exceptional communicator, capable of engaging effectively at all levels within our operations. You&#x27;ll thrive in a dynamic environment, embracing change with enthusiasm and guiding others through the journey. A proactive approach to health, safety, and wellbeing is essential, as is a genuine passion for delivering the finest New Zealand seafood to the world. Physical and mental fitness is key. What we&#x27;re looking for: <ul><li>Mate Fishing Vessel (MFV) certification or equivalent; OR for certain operating scenarios on selected vessels, we may also consider candidates holding a Skipper Coastal Offshore (SCO) certificate .</li><li>Hold a current Maritime Medical.</li><li>General understanding of compliance with relevant New Zealand legislation including MOSS, HSWA, Fisheries Act&#x2F;regulations, and MPI food safety requirements.</li><li>Experience with bottom water operations on vessels of similar size and operational complexity.</li><li>Strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills with the ability to contribute positively to vessel culture and onboard operations.</li></ul> Join a close-knit, high-performing scampi fleet where your contribution matters. You&#x27;ll be supported by experienced Vessel Managers and a strong culture of safety and teamwork. With opportunities to build a long-term career in deepwater fishing, Sanford offers the chance to deliver world-class seafood while working on some of the fleet’s most respected vessels. You must be eligible to work in New Zealand. Our recruitment process includes pre-engagement checks including criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing, and a medical assessment.

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