Apprentice Plumber

Silver Fern Farms Limited; Balclutha; On-site; NZD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discounted staff meat sales

Paid sick leave from day one

Subsidised health insurance

Confidential employee assistance

Free on-site parking

Uniform provided

Job summary

Silver Fern Farms Limited is seeking an enthusiastic Apprentice Plumber to join the maintenance team at the Finegand site in Otago. The role supports a qualified Plumber with plumbing and drainage tasks across the site to keep production running smoothly.

The position emphasizes practical problem solving, safety, and teamwork, with involvement in installations and repairs as part of ongoing improvements. No Plumbing Registration is required at start, but apprenticeship learning is encouraged.

Qualifications

• Practical, hands-on experience in a trade or maintenance environment.
• Strong practical skills with tools and basic repair work.
• Good communication and ability to work well in a team.

Responsibilities

• Keep things flowing - assist with the maintenance and repair of plumbing, drainage, and hygiene equipment across the site.
• Learn and build - support new installations, upgrades, and basic sheet‑metal or fabrication tasks.
• Champion safety - follow safe work practices, use tools correctly, and support a strong health and safety culture.
• Collaborate and contribute - work closely with the maintenance team to complete tasks and support continuous improvement.

Skills

Hands-on

Teamwork

Problem solving

Communication

Safety culture

Attention to detail

Job description

We’re looking for a hands‑on and reliable Apprentice Plumber to join our maintenance team at Silver Fern Farms Finegand, one of New Zealand’s leading beef and lamb processing sites.

In this role, you will support our qualified Plumber with plumbing and drainage tasks across the site. You'll help keep production running smoothly, assist with repairs and installations, and contribute to a strong safety culture.

If you enjoy practical work, problem solving, and being part of a collaborative team, this is a great opportunity to develop and grow your skillset.

• Keep things flowing - assist with the maintenance and repair of plumbing, drainage, and hygiene equipment across the site.
• Learn and build - support new installations, upgrades, and basic sheet‑metal or fabrication tasks.
• Champion safety - follow safe work practices, use tools correctly, and support a strong health and safety culture.
• Collaborate and contribute - work closely with the maintenance team to complete tasks and support continuous improvement.

You’ll bring:

• Practical, hands‑on experience in a trade, plumbing support, maintenance, or mechanical environment.
• Strong practical skills with tools, equipment, and basic repair work.
• Solid problem‑solving abilities and attention to detail.
• A strong commitment to safe work practices and compliance standards.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work well in a team environment.
• A positive attitude and willingness to support a qualified Plumber in day‑to‑day tasks.

Note: This role does not require Plumbing Registration or a Plumber’s Licence. A willingness to complete an apprenticeship / keenness to learn and grow is desirable.

Te Ahurea / Why Work at Silver Fern Farms?

Silver Fern Farms is all about Creating Goodness from the Farms the World Needs. That goodness is reflected in the work our people do, the skill of our farmers, and the care we show for communities, animals, and the environment.

For you, we offer:

• Discounted staff meat sales
• Paid sick leave from day one
• Subsidised health insurance
• Confidential employee assistance (career planning, financial advice, counselling)
• Free on-site parking
• Uniform provided

Please note that applications will be reviewed from Friday 18th September 2026.

Silver Fern Farms welcomes people from all backgrounds and walks of life. We are proud to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and are committed to providing equal opportunities for all. Come and create goodness with us.