Generalist Operator And Forklift Driver

Qjumpers; Southland; On-site; NZD 32,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Onsite training

Overtime pay (time and a quarter)

Guaranteed 40 hrs/wk

Career opportunities

Job summary

Niagara Sawmilling in Kennington, Invercargill, NZ, seeks a Generalist Operator and Forklift Driver for our Dry Mill team. You’ll operate grading machinery, wrap and label timber, and support kiln operations with occasional night and weekend cover. Day shifts predominate, with overtime paid at time and a quarter.

We offer full onsite training, exposure to multiple Dry Mill and kiln processes, and opportunities for advancement in a long-standing timber industry employer.

Qualifications

• A current forklift licence OR willingness to obtain one.
• Good physical fitness and confidence with manual handling.
• A positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to learn.
• Commitment to safety, teamwork, and quality work.
• Proven work history with recent employment references.

Responsibilities

• Operating grading machinery and timber processing equipment.
• Wrapping, labelling, and preparing timber packets for dispatch.
• Relief forklift driving for leave and production cover.
• Supporting kiln operations, including inventory management and moisture control.
• General timber handling and production duties.
• Working safely and efficiently within a team environment.
• Assisting across multiple areas of the operation as required.

Skills

Forklift operation

Physical fitness

Safety awareness

Communication

Teamwork

Tools

Grading machinery

Timber processing equipment

Job description

Monday-Friday | 6:00am - 2:30pm | Regular Time & a Quarter Opportunities | Occasional Night & Weekend Cover

The Role

We are seeking a motivated individual to join our Kennington-based Dry Mill team as a Generalist Operator and Forklift Driver.

This hands-on role offers experience across timber processing, including operating grading machinery, wrapping and labelling packets, relief forklift driving, and supporting Dry Mill production activities. Most of your time will be spent working day shift; however, you'll also provide occasional night and weekend cover for our 24/7 kiln operations, assisting with inventory management, moisture control, and timber handling.

Key Responsibilities

• Operating grading machinery and timber processing equipment
• Wrapping, labelling, and preparing timber packets for dispatch
• Relief forklift driving for leave and production cover
• Supporting kiln operations, including inventory management and moisture control
• General timber handling and production duties
• Working safely and efficiently within a team environment
• Assisting across multiple areas of the operation as required

What We Offer

• Overtime opportunities paid at time and a quarter
• Guaranteed minimum of 40 hours per week
• Full onsite training and ongoing development opportunities
• Exposure to multiple areas of Dry Mill and kiln operations
• Opportunities for advancement into specialist roles
• Supportive team environment and experienced management
• Long-term career opportunities with a company that invests in its people

About You

You are reliable, motivated, safety-conscious, and keen to build a long-term career in manufacturing.

You will have:

• A current forklift licence OR willingness to obtain one
• Good physical fitness and confidence with manual handling
• A positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Strong communication skills and willingness to learn
• Commitment to safety, teamwork, and quality work
• Proven work history with recent employment references

About Us

Niagara Sawmilling is a leading New Zealand timber processor and manufacturer based in Kennington, Invercargill.

As Niagara Sawmilling celebrates 90 years of operation, we remain a trusted name in New Zealand's timber industry, built on a foundation of innovation, craftsmanship, and a people-first approach. We're proud to offer meaningful opportunities for people who want to be part of a team that values acting with integrity and striving for excellence.