Floating Plant Mate
Port Otago’s business is made up of a regional container terminal, multiple Supply Chain facilities, bulk port activities, cruise and property investment/development. We service South Canterbury, Otago, and Southland, working with customers to streamline their supply chains. Our culture is hands-on; safety focused and encourages continuous improvement.
About the role:
This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a suitably experienced Floating Plant Mate to join our Marine and Infrastructure team on a permanent, full-time basis, working in a role that offers stunning views of the Otago Harbour.
Port Otago owns and operates the tug Arihi, principally engaged in the backhoe barge operation within Otago Harbour. The tug manoeuvres our backhoe barge Takutai into position and tows hopper barges Hapuka and TR Healy out to the dump ground. The Floating Plant Mate may also be required to operate or crew other vessels in the Port Otago fleet, such as shipping tugs, and to relieve on other floating plant when required.
As Floating Plant Mate, you will be second in charge of navigation on tug Arihi, responsible for operating the vessel in a safe and efficient manner. You will also be responsible for the seaworthiness of the hopper barges used in the backhoe barge operation (currently Hapuka and TR Healy), and for their day-to-day operation. On occasion, the vessels may operate outside Otago Harbour on special contracts.
From time to time, you may also be required to be a mate on the New Era which is a self-propelled spilt hopper barge.
Work allocation:
In this role, you will normally work 42 hours per week between 0600 and 1800, Monday to Friday. Flexibility is required, as additional hours may be needed to meet operational requirements.
What we're looking for:
Our ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate the following:
- An MNZ document enabling you to sail as Master on vessels under 24m, such as:
- Skipper Restricted Limits (<24m); or
- Skipper Coastal/Offshore; or
- An equivalent ring-fenced ticket
- An SRL < 3000GT endorsement or equivalent SRL < 500GT.
- Previous experience on vessels in a commercial setting.
- Barge handling and towage experience (an advantage).
- The ability to work well as part of a team, with the flexibility to respond to operational needs outside normal hours.
- The physical fitness to meet the demands of the role, and the ability to obtain a Seafarers Medical.
- A positive, collaborative attitude that embraces challenges with confidence.
- A true passion for Health & Safety, including excellent personal safety standards.
What's in it for you?
- Competitive base salary.
- Health insurance for you, your partner, and dependent children (valued at $8,800 p.a.).
- Superannuation matched up to 7% after 6 months' service.
Why work for Port Otago?
- A collaborative work environment which encourages people to be as great as they can.
- Wellness Programme and initiatives such as Health Checks, Fruit Boxes, and Free Period Products.
- Contribution towards relocation costs to Dunedin, if you're interested in relocating to Ōtepoti Dunedin for the role.
How do I apply?
Please apply online via our website to ensure our Port Otago Application Form is completed.
Please ensure you include a copy of your up-to-date CV with your application. If you are not currently living in Dunedin, please tell us why you would like to move to this wonderful city in your cover letter.
Applications close 5pm, Sunday 13th September 2026. We encourage you to apply early, as suitable candidates may be contacted before the closing date.
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
