Tractor Driver

Chard Farm; Cromwell Community; On-site; NZD 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Chard Farm in Cromwell seeks an experienced Tractor Driver to join our vineyard team on a 115-hectare estate. The role focuses on precise tractor operation across blocks, with attention to irrigation, soil variation, and vine age.

You will perform spraying, mowing, inter-row work, and general cultivation, while conducting pre-op checks and maintaining machinery. A Class 2 license and safe chemical handling knowledge are preferred; GROWSAFE is a plus.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating agricultural tractors, ideally in a vineyard or horticultural setting.
• Knowledge of safe chemical handling and spray application.
• Mechanically minded with basic maintenance skills.
• Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and independently.
• Full, clean drivers license (Class 2 would be ideal).
• Good communication and a safety-first attitude.
• GROWSAFE training is beneficial but not compulsory.

Responsibilities

• Operate vineyard tractors safely and efficiently across all blocks.
• Perform spraying operations with accuracy, care, and adherence to chemical use protocols.
• Mow, mulch, and manage inter-row cover crops as directed.
• Carry out general cultivation, spreading, and haulage tasks as needed across the season.
• Conduct daily pre-operation checks on tractors and attached implements; report faults promptly.
• Adapt driving and implement techniques to block-specific needs given variation in blocks.
• Follow all health and safety procedures, including safe handling of agrichemicals and machinery.

Skills

Tractor operation

Safety awareness

Maintenance basics

Independence

Outdoor work

Class 2 license

Chemical handling

Job description

We're seeking an experienced and reliable Tractor Driver to join our Cromwell vineyard team across our 115-hectare property, spanning several distinct blocks with varying varieties, soils, and vine ages. This role is central to the day-to-day running of the vineyard, requiring a driver who can operate with precision and care around vines, irrigation infrastructure, and varied ground conditions.

Key responsibilities

• Operate vineyard tractors safely and efficiently across all blocks
• Perform spraying operations with accuracy, care, and adherence to chemical use protocols
• Mow, mulch, and manage inter-row cover crops as directed
• Carry out general cultivation, spreading, and haulage tasks as needed across the season
• Conduct daily pre-operation checks on tractors and attached implements; report faults promptly
• Adapt driving and implement techniques to the specific needs of each block, given the variation in varieties, vine age, and soil type across the property
• Follow all health and safety procedures, including safe handling of agrichemicals and machinery

About you

• Proven experience operating agricultural tractors, ideally in a vineyard or horticultural setting
• Sound understanding of safe chemical handling and spray application (GROWSAFE ideal but not compulsory)
• Mechanically minded, with ability to carry out basic maintenance and identify issues early
• Comfortable working independently and using good judgement across varied block conditions
• Full, clean driver's licence (Class 2 would be ideal)
• Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Good communication skills and a reliable, safety-first attitude