Agricultural Machinery Operators
Central Otago (based in Alexandra)
We are a busy, family-run agricultural contracting business based in Central Otago, seeking experienced Agricultural Machinery Operators to join our team for the 2026/2027 season.
Positions available
Multiple positions available, including:
- Triple & double mower operators
- Quad & twin rotor rake operators
- Round baler operators
- Forage harvester operator
- Tube wrapper & telehandler operator
- Silage & bale trailer operator
- Silage stack operator
- Truck driver (Class 4 minimum)
- Direct & precision drill operators
About the role
This is a full-time, fixed-term seasonal position involving the operation of agricultural mobile plant and machinery across a range of contracting activities.
This is a hands-on, safety-critical role requiring the ability to work independently and as part of a team, particularly during peak seasonal periods.
Operators must remain focused while operating machinery, so non-essential mobile phone use is not permitted during work time (phones are for smoko and breaks only).
Key responsibilities
- Operating, maintaining and controlling agricultural machinery including tractors, forage harvesters, balers and associated implements
- Driving and operating mobile plant to carry out cultivation, planting, harvesting and forage operations
- Attaching, adjusting and operating machinery for specific agricultural tasks (drilling, precision planting, mowing, raking, baling)
- Monitoring machinery performance and making operational adjustments to ensure efficient output
- Performing routine servicing, pre-start checks and minor repairs
- Identifying faults and reporting major mechanical issues
- Transporting machinery, equipment and materials safely between sites
- Recording work completed, including hours, inputs and job details in digital systems
- Following all workplace health and safety procedures and compliance requirements
Machinery operated
Operators will work with a modern fleet including:
- Tractors (John Deere, Fendt, Massey Ferguson)
- CLAAS triple mowers and quad rotor rake
- McHale balers
- CLAAS forage harvester (960)
- Anderson tube wrapper
- Stewart tip trailer
- JCB telehandler and JCB 434S loader with 14’ Albutt
- Volvo truck and trailer
- Allen direct drill and Väderstad precision planter
What we're looking for
- Minimum 3 years' experience operating agricultural or heavy machinery
- Confident operating, adjusting and maintaining a range of tractor-based and self-propelled machinery
- Good mechanical knowledge with ability to carry out routine servicing and basic adjustments
- Ability to follow instructions and operate machinery safely and efficiently
- Strong understanding of health & safety requirements and accurate record-keeping
- Reliable, with good communication and consistent attendance
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Willingness to work extended hours during seasonal peaks
- Physically fit for manual, outdoor work
- Full, clean driver licence required
- Class 4 or 5 licence advantageous
Pay & hours
- $28 to $40 per hour, depending on skills and experience
- Minimum guaranteed 30 hours per week
- Up to 70 hours per week during peak seasonal periods
This pay range reflects the current New Zealand market rate for agricultural machinery operators and is based on experience, regional factors and the seasonal nature of contracting work. Pay and conditions comply with New Zealand employment law. There are no recruitment or placement fees.
What we offer
- Assistance with accommodation
- Work vehicles provided where required
- A supportive, experienced team environment
- Opportunity for ongoing work for the right candidates
- The lifestyle benefits of living and working in Central Otago
Work eligibility / visa support
We welcome applications from New Zealand residents and overseas candidates.
Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand or be eligible for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). We can support suitable applicants through the visa process.
How to apply
Please send the following to ben@centralruralservices.co.nz:
- Your CV
- Two referees
- Your availability
- Whether you're currently in New Zealand, or require visa / accommodation support
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