Position: Hide & Skin Processing Machine Operator
Location: Timaru-based
Company: Stafford
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
Pay Range: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour
Hours of work: Minimum 30 hours per week
About the Role:
We are seeking physically fit and reliable Hide & Skin Processing Machine Operators to join the production team at our client’s Washdyke facility. This is a hands-on role responsible for operating machinery and performing manual tasks related to hide and skin processing. You will work as part of a tight-knit team in a fast-paced, industrial environment.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Operate and monitor hide-processing machinery
- Hooking up hides, fleshing, trimming, grading, salting, and packing hides
- Starting, monitoring, and adjusting machines for optimal operation
- Loading and unloading hides into machinery and drums
- Safely handling chemicals and tanning solutions
- Maintaining quality standards and adhering to production procedures
- Completing required paperwork and product data records as required
- Keeping work areas and equipment clean and safe
- Following SOPs, maintaining quality, and reporting faults
- Participating in training and continuous improvement
Requirements:
- Experience in a production or manufacturing environment handling animal hides and skins preferred
- Minimum 3 years’ experience operating processing machinery in a production or manufacturing environment
- Knife handling skills preferred
- Physical fitness is essential, with the ability to lift 20–30kg repeatedly
- A proactive approach to Health and Safety practices and commitment to training is essential
- Proven training records working in a production and manufacturing environment would be an advantage, eg, chemical handling, confined spaces, lockout procedures, and respirator use
- Good H&S awareness and consistent use of PPE
- Strong work ethic and willingness to learn new skills
- Good communication and teamwork skills are essential
- Forklift licence and operating experience would be an advantage (OSH certificate, and F endorsement)
- Must be able to pass drug screening
- Must be able to commit to variable shift patterns:
- day shift, night shift, and weekends
- 8 – 12-hour shifts
- Must have own reliable transport
- Ministry of Justice checks will be completed for all applicants
- ACC checks will be completed for all applicants
To Apply:
- Please apply with your CV detailing your relevant skills and work experience.
- Applications close – Sunday 17 August 2025