Nightshift Sawmill Machine Operator

QJumpers Recruitment Services; Invercargill City; On-site; NZD 50,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Niagara Sawmilling Company Limited, a NZ-owned sawmill, seeks a motivated Machine Operator / Labourer for a full-time night shift at our Kennington Sawmill near Invercargill. You will operate machinery to convert logs into rough sawn timber and support quality output in a hands-on manufacturing setting.

No timber industry experience is required; training is provided. The role suits practical, reliable individuals who can work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Consistent work history with good references.
• Machining experience or mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Physical ability to stand, bend and lift heavy objects.

Responsibilities

• Operate sawmill machinery to transform logs into rough sawn timber profiles.
• Ensure equipment is well-maintained and performing to meet output goals.
• Support a high-performing nightshift team in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Skills

Machining experience

Mechanical aptitude

Teamwork

Communication skills

Physical fitness

Job description

Join a team that works with integrity, supports each other, and strives for excellence.

Niagara Sawmilling Company Limited is a proudly New Zealand-owned and operated sawmill, manufacturer, and distributor with over 90 years of industry leadership. We specialise in high-quality radiata pine products used across New Zealand and international construction markets. With a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and our people, we offer long-term employment in a dynamic and supportive workplace.

We are currently seeking a motivated and practical Machine Operator / Labourer at our Kennington Sawmill. This is a hands-on, full-time nightshift role suitable for a candidate who is ready to contribute to a high-performing team and grow within a progressive business.

Are you ready to be part of a team where strength, teamwork, and dedication drive success? Join us at Niagara, located just a stone's throw from Invercargill, and take on a vital role in our robust team.

As a Sawmill Machine Operator, you will play a crucial role in our operations, transforming raw logs into various rough sawn timber profiles to fuel our remanufacturing production plant. You will handle physically demanding tasks, operate machinery, and ensure equipment is performing at its best to meet our output goals.

This is a rewarding role where full training is provided - no previous timber industry experience is required! What matters most is your attitude and commitment. We are looking for someone who can reliably commit to the nightshift pattern, brings genuine interest and energy to their work, and is eager to learn and develop machinery skills. You will need to pay close attention to detail to support quality control standards, and be comfortable with some variety across your shift as tasks and priorities change.

If you are capable, motivated, and ready to grow your skills in a hands-on manufacturing environment, this could be the opportunity for you.

Schedule:

• Monday to Thursday, 6:00 PM to 4:30 AM (Three day weekend, every week!)
• Regular overtime opportunities, at the end of each shift - paid at an overtime bonus rate!
• Year round employment, with security.
• Christmas / New Year holiday shut down to enjoy the festive season with friends and family!

We have a supportive, and skilled team who are looking to welcome a candidate who has:

• A consistent work history and great references
• Machining experience or mechanical aptitude
• The ability to work independently and within a team
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• The physical ability to stand, bend, and lift heavy objects - this is a physical role!

At Niagara, you are not just another number. You will join a skilled, supportive crew where camaraderie fuels performance and achieving production targets is a shared win. We value our people and provide real opportunities to build a long-term career in the timber industry.

If you are dependable, practical, and ready to contribute to a high-performing nightshift team, we’d love to hear from you.

Learn more about our people, workplace, and products on the Niagara website.

A clear pre-employment drug screen is required for joining our team.