Timber Drying Operator

Red Stag Timber; Rotorua; On-site; NZD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Red Stag Timber’s Waipa Mill in Rotorua is seeking a hands-on Timber Drying Operator to monitor kiln drying, operate a loader, and maintain equipment. Full training will be provided, leading to the New Zealand Certificate in Timber Drying (Level 3 and Level 4).

A strong safety mindset and reliable work history are valued as you join a dedicated Kilns Team. During training, hours are 8:00–16:30, Monday to Friday.

Qualifications

• NCEA Level 2 including English and Mathematics.
• Current full NZ driver’s licence.
• Consistent and reliable employment history.
• Good level of physical fitness for an active role.
• Strong communication skills and the initiative to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control the kiln drying process.
• Operate a loader to move timber into kilns.
• Carry out maintenance on timber drying equipment.
• Work closely with a team of operators.

Education

NCEA Level 2

Job description

Red Stag Timber | Waipa Mill, Rotorua
Full training provided, with nationally recognised qualifications

Looking for a hands‑on role mixing office and outside work? Join the Kilns Team at Red Stag Timber’s Waipa Mill, just 5 minutes south of Rotorua CBD, and train as a specialist Timber Drying Operator. Timber industry experience is a bonus but not essential. We’ll provide full training so you can earn the New Zealand Certificate in Timber Drying (Level 3 and Level 4), a specialist qualification valued across the industry.

What you’ll be doing

• Monitoring and controlling the kiln drying process
• Running a small loader to move timber into kilns
• Carrying out maintenance on timber drying equipment
• Working closely with a team of fellow operators

Hours and roster

• During training: Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 4.30pm
• Once trained: a 4 on / 4 off sliding day-shift roster, 6.00am to 6.00pm (including breaks). This includes some weekends but gives you four full days off every cycle.

The ideal candidate will have proven success in these areas:

• A minimum of NCEA Level 2, including achievement in English and Mathematics, is required.
• A current full NZ driver’s licence
• A consistent and reliable employment history
• A good level of physical fitness to meet the demands of an active, hands‑on role.
• Strong communication skills and the initiative to work independently and get things done.

Experience operating machinery, mobile plant or wood processing equipment is an advantage.

Shortlisted candidates will complete a mechanical aptitude test at interview.

Due to the nature of the work involved, a pre‑employment medical and drug screening checks apply.

Applicants must currently reside and be eligible to work in New Zealand.