Experienced Knifehands- Meat Processing

Silver Fern Farms Waitane is the company's southern most ovine processing site. With 220 staff at peak season, the site processes lamb, sheep and bobby calves sourced from around Southland and Otago. Located just a few minutes south of Gore, Silver Fern Farms Waitane is an integral employer in the area. We are a family-oriented team and proud of our diverse culture, leading the way in the development of our people through our values-led approach of Always caring; our Manaakitanga, Unstoppable together; our Kotahitanga, and Improving tomorrow; our Kaitiakitanga. Our Waitane site, in Gore, is preparing for our 2026 season. We are on the hunt for experienced knifehands with previous industry experience, ideally from time spent in the slaughtering process. Equally, we are happy to hear from you if you have a broad range of knife hand experience, gained from working across other departments. **Te mahi, our working arrangements:** * Complete your on-the-job training and earn a minimum $28.82/hr plus extras. * Usually, 40 hours per week during peak production season, plus overtime opportunities. * Minimum $43/hr production overtime rate. * 8-hour dayshift. Various start times depending on department. * All work clothing and safety gear is provided. **Te tikanga, the job requirements:** * Industrial manufacturing meat processing experience * Butchering skills and/or trimming skills * You're an active team member who can work closely with others and bring a positive, hardworking attitude. * Able to understand and follow health and safety, quality, and technical compliance requirements. * Eligible to work in New Zealand. * Able to pass our pre-employment medical checks, criminal convictions check, and physical fitness requirements. **Ngā hua, our benefits:** * Access to quality meat at mates' rates on-site to nourish you and your whānau. * On-the-job training and opportunities for career development. * Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing confidential counselling and wellbeing support to all employees and their eligible family members. **Te ahurea, why work at Silver Fern Farms?** Silver Fern Farms is all about Creating Goodness from the Farms the World Needs. We strive to continuously improve our operations, upskill our people and foster an environment of mutual learning. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your skills and progress with New Zealand's market leader in quality red meat production, with customers in over 60 countries around the world. We're a purpose-led organisation with a proud story to tell. Driven by our passion, our innovation, and most importantly our people, we're helping to shape the future of food on the global stage. Silver Fern Farms is working hard to maintain a drug and alcohol-free workplace. Pre-employment drug screening is mandatory. **Tono mai, to apply:** If you're a hard worker looking to earn a good living, we'd love to hear from you. Click the 'Apply' button below to submit your application or find out more. *Please note, we are unable to accept overseas applications for these positions.*