Deep Sea Fishing Crew - Seafood Processing

Sanford LtdOtherTimaru, Canterbury2w ago

Trade the ordinary 9-5 for a career at sea

Work aboard Sanford'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'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'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'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.

Factory Trawlers: Our factory trawlers feature large onboard processing factories where seafood is sorted, filleted, packed and frozen while still at sea. You'll rotate through different processing areas including trimming, packing, freezer work and weigh stations, while assisting on deck as required.

Longliners: Longlining combines the best of both worlds, with time spent both on deck and in the processing factory. You'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 Vessels: Scampi operations combine precision processing with deck work. You'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're looking for: You don't need previous fishing experience - we're looking for people with the right attitude. You'll be someone who has:

* Proven ability to handle the physical and mental demands of the role and life at sea

* Get along with people from all walks of life and a team-player mindset

* Experience in seafood processing, deck work, or maritime operations is an advantage but not essential

* Awareness of health, safety, and hygiene standards in a workplace

* Resilience, adaptability, and stamina to handle life at sea

About Sanford

Sanford operates one of New Zealand'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're proud to be one of the country's leading seafood companies.

Been referred by a Mate? If you'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've worked on our vessels within the last two years, we'd love to hear from you. Contact Natalie directly at ncairns@sanford.co.nz 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.

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