HEAVY PLANT OPERATORS (FIXED TERM)
We operate a wide range of equipment across the Port, from forklifts through to some of the biggest reach stackers in town. We’re looking for Heavy Plant Operators to join our team and help keep cargo moving and Hawke’s Bay connected to the world.
These are fixed-term positions through to June 2028, offering the opportunity to build your skills, gain licences and learn to operate a range of heavy plant and equipment.
What will I be doing?
As a Heavy Plant Operator, you’ll work across our busy operations, moving cargo safely and efficiently and learning to operate different types of equipment as your skills and experience grow.
No two days are quite the same. You’ll work alongside a great team in a fast-paced environment where safety, teamwork and keeping things moving are a big part of the job.
What do I need?
You don’t need to arrive knowing how to operate all of our equipment. What’s important to us is that you bring:
- A great attitude and willingness to learn.
- A full Class 2 driver licence that you’ve held for at least six months.
- A W/F endorsement is desirable.
- A strong commitment to safety.
- Reliability and the ability to work well as part of a team.
- Flexibility to work shifts, weekends and public holidays.
What’s on offer?
- A full-time, fixed-term role through to June 2028, with a guaranteed minimum of 40 hours per week.
- A starting rate of over $38 per hour.
- On-the-job training with qualified and experienced trainers.
- The opportunity to learn to operate a range of impressive plant and equipment.
- A strong focus on keeping everyone safe at work.
What do I need to know?
Napier Port is a 24/7 business, so shift work, weekends and public holidays are part of the job.
When you first join us, you’ll generally work either around 7am to mid-afternoon or mid-afternoon to midnight. As you gain more experience, there may also be the opportunity to work midnight to 7am shifts.
We know shift work can take some getting used to, particularly nights, so we provide dedicated time off to prepare and recover and support from experienced team members who can share what works for them when it comes to managing tiredness.
Sounds great, how can I apply?
Applications close: Thursday 15th October 2026, but we will be reviewing applications prior to this, so get in early!
To apply: Submit your CV and a brief cover letter via SEEK, TradeMe, or the Napier Port website.
You must have current eligibility to work in New Zealand.
At Napier Port, we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to contribute their best. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Napier Port does not accept unsolicited agency résumés and is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited résumés.
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
