Hide & Skin Processing Machine Operator

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