Forklift Operator
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.
Here at Port, there is always something on the go and as a business we are collaborative, fast-paced and always open.
We are seeking motivated and capable people to join our Supply Chain team as Forklift Operators. While the port industry has traditionally attracted men, times are changing. We strongly encourage people of all backgrounds to apply as we continue to strengthen and diversify our team.
About the Role
Our Forklift Operators cover a range of duties including, but not limited to:
• Safely operate forklifts within multiple Supply Chain facilities, making sure product is handled safely and efficiently
• Timely loading and unloading of rail, trucks and shipping containers to ensure customers' demands are meet.
• Accurately receipting, dispatching, and managing stock across Port Otago warehouse using our Warehouse Management Systems
You will join our team on a permanent, full-time basis, which will include:
· Guaranteed 40 hours per week, plus overtime as required. This may include some weekend and shift work depending on shipping and supply chain demands.
· The potential to work at any of our warehouses based in Port Chalmers, Mosgiel or Dunedin (Cold Stores), working with various products such as Fish, Dairy and Timber.
About You:
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and supported. We are especially interested in hearing from people who:
· Have a strong commitment to health and safety for yourself and your team.
· Are positive and collaborative, you’ll be the kind of person who embraces challenges with confidence.
· Are team-oriented, enjoy helping others and contributing to shared success.
· Are dependable, resilient and easily adapt to change.
· Are respectful and solutions focused in your approach to others.
Previous experience operating forklifts is preferred, but not essential as we will provide full training to any successful candidates and support you to gain your OSH Forklift Certificate.
Why Us:
· Starting rate is $28.08 per hour, and once you have completed your training with us, you will move to the experienced rate of $30.78 per hour
· Health insurance is paid for you, your partner and dependent children (valued at $6,600 p.a.).
· Superannuation of 3% and is matched up to 7% after 6 months service.
In addition to the total minimum package (outlined above), the following is up for grabs:
· Overtime over 40 hours is paid at time and a half of the hourly rate.
· Second shift allowance of $7.44 per hour when working from 3-11pm.
· $2 per hour allowance when working in our Coldstores.
· Free parking and EV Chargers.
· Wellness Programme and initiatives such as Health Checks, Fruit Boxes and Free Period Products.
· Full PPE (personal protective equipment) will be provided including boots.
· Contribution towards relocation costs of up to $5k to Dunedin.
Heads up
· You must be able to pass Ministry of Justice, ACC checks and a full medical which includes a drug and alcohol test.
· We complete ongoing random drug and alcohol testing.
· We welcome a diverse team; therefore, people of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
How do I apply?
Please apply online via our Port Otago Careers website to ensure the application form is completed. Please also ensure that you include a copy of your up-to-date CV along with your application.
Applications close Wednesday 4 February 2026 at 5pm. Don’t delay, make sure you apply as soon as a possible as we will be reviewing applications as they come in, and the close date may change.
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
