Full time Orchard Equipment Operator

Darlings Fruit Ltd; Ettrick; On-site; NZD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Team atmosphere

Modern work environment

Learning opportunities

Rewarding role

People-first culture

Job summary

Darlings Fruit Ltd invites applications for an Orchard Equipment Operator to join our Ettrick team. This full-time role focuses on safe operation of orchard machinery, tractors with implements, spraying, fertiliser applications, and supporting harvest logistics from our Ettrick packhouse.

We value a positive attitude, good communication, honesty, self-motivation and reliability. NZ residency and a valid NZ driver’s licence are required.

Qualifications

• NZ resident or citizen status is required.
• Experience with orchard machinery is preferred but not essential.
• A current New Zealand Driver’s Licence is required.

Responsibilities

• Operate tractors with mowers, sprayers, cultivators and bin trailers safely.
• Carry out precise spraying and fertilizer applications following safety rules.
• Assist with harvest logistics, fruit transport and bin handling.
• Perform pre-start checks, routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting.
• Follow health, safety and biosecurity protocols on the orchard.
• Support other orchard tasks as needed.

Skills

Positive attitude

Good communication

Honesty & integrity

Self-motivation

Willingness to learn

Job description

The Darling family owns and operates over 100ha of orchard in Roxburgh East and Ettrick.We grow apricots, apples, pears and plums which we pack and distribute from our packhouse in Ettrick.

We are on the lookout for a full time Orchard Equipment Operator to join our team!Prior and proven experience is preferred but not essential.A current New Zealand Driver’s Licence is required.

Key Responsibilities

As an Orchard Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of orchard machinery. Your daily tasks will include:

• Operating tractors equipped with various implements (mowers, sprayers, cultivators, and bin trailers).
• Carrying out precise orchard spraying and fertilizer applications in compliance with safety and environmental standards.
• Assisting with harvest logistics, including fruit transportation and bin handling.
• Conducting daily pre-start checks, routine maintenance, and basic mechanical troubleshooting of machinery.
• Adhering strictly to health, safety, and biosecurity protocols on the orchard.
• Assisting with other orchard tasks as and when required.

What can we offer you?

• Unbeatable team atmosphere with a close knit team
• A modern and innovative work environment
• Plenty of opportunity to learn new skills and gain valuable experiences
• A rewarding role with purpose
• Feel appreciated and valued. We always put people first.

What qualities will you need?

• A positive attitude
• Good communication skills
• Honesty and integrity
• Self-motivation and the ability to work by yourself or in a team
• Ability to adhere to scheduled start and finish times consistently
• A willingness to learn
• Enthusiasm for new skills and experiences
• Good level of physical fitness

You MUST be a NZ Resident or Citizen to apply for this job.

Applications close 20 September 2026