We are a Hawke's Bay-based accredited employer providing horticultural and viticultural contracting services across the wider Hawke's Bay region. We are seeking three experienced Horticulture Tractor/Machinery Operators to join our growing team.
Working within a large horticultural and viticultural operation, you will work across a variety of orchard and vineyard blocks throughout the district, carrying out seasonal field operations. A key part of the role involves applying spray programmes accurately and on time to help ensure the production of high-quality crops. You will often work independently while also contributing as part of a wider field operations team involved in activities ranging from ground cultivation through to harvest across multiple crop types.
About the Role
These are full-time, permanent positions offering stable, year-round employment. The work involves operating a wide range of machinery and equipment, with increased workloads during peak growing seasons.
Guaranteed minimum of 30 hours per week, year-round
Competitive hourly rate of $29.00 to $31.00 per hour, depending on skills and experience
Consistent employment throughout the year
During seasonal peak periods, you may be required to work up to six days per week, including weekends
You will be required to:
*Read and interpret spray plans and follow instructions regarding chemical mixing rates and application requirements
*Operate tractor-drawn and self-propelled machinery for mowing, fertilising, mulching, spraying, and other field operations
*Safely operate tractors, loaders, and forklifts
*Stack, unstack, and load bins onto trucks using tractors, loaders, and forklifts
*Complete production records, spray logs, and other documentation accurately
*Verify loading documentation and carry out routine machinery and vehicle safety checks
*Operate and maintain a range of horticultural and viticultural equipment, including tractors, sprayers, mowers, and hydraladders
*Adapt to changing seasonal requirements and undertake a variety of tasks as required
*Maintain accurate time records and effectively manage your workload while working independently
*Follow all company health and safety policies and procedures
*Undertake training and certification requirements relating to machinery operation and agrichemical handling when required
Skills and Experience Required
*A minimum of three years' experience operating horticultural or viticultural machinery
*Strong numeracy and record-keeping skills, including spray logs and chemical calculations
*A full, clean New Zealand driver's licence
*Good physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
*The flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays when required
*Availability during peak seasonal periods, with limited leave availability over Christmas and New Year
*Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively under pressure
*A reliable, motivated attitude and the ability to work within a diverse team environment
Additional requirements:
Must pass a pre employment drug and alcohol test
Subject to random and reasonable cause testing throughout employment
How to apply
If this sounds like you please apply through trade me with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience - please make sure to include your New Zealand right-to-work status i.e. citizen or residence visa holder