Dispatch Coordinator / Forklift Driver

Looking for a role that combines forklift driving with planning, problem solving and coordination?

McVicar Timber is a well-established Canterbury timber manufacturer supplying quality timber products throughout New Zealand and internationally. We are looking for a capable and organised Dispatch Coordinator / Forklift Driver to join our team at our Harewood mill.

This is not a desk-based dispatch role. It’s a hands-on position where you’ll spend part of your day operating a forklift and loading trucks, and part reviewing customer orders, planning loads and coordinating dispatch.

You’ll work out what needs to go where, locate and pick the right timber packs, build efficient truck loads, arrange freight and make sure everything is ready to get out the gate safely and on time.

If you like variety, enjoy figuring things out and are equally comfortable behind the wheel of a forklift as you are working through orders on a computer, this could be a great fit.

What you'll be doing

• Review customer orders and available/in-process inventory
• Create logical and accurate picking lists
• Pick and organise timber packs for customer orders
• Operate a 5-tonne forklift and load timber packs onto trucks
• Plan truck loads and coordinate daily dispatch requirements
• Schedule deliveries and arrange freight
• Prepare manifests and other dispatch documentation
• Communicate with drivers, suppliers, customers and internal teams
• Keep the dispatch yard organised, tidy and safe
• Work closely with our sales, fulfilment, production and yard teams to keep everything moving

What we're looking for

You’ll be someone who is practical, organised and comfortable taking responsibility for getting the job done.

Ideally, you will bring:

• Experience and confidence operating a 5 tonne forklift or similar machinery
• Strong planning and organisational skills
• A methodical approach with the ability to think ahead
• Good problem-solving skills and plenty of common sense
• Confidence using basic computer systems and email
• Clear communication skills and the ability to both give and receive instructions
• A strong commitment to health and safety, particularly around truck loading and yard operations
• A reliable, hardworking and team-focused approach
• Flexibility to work the occasional extra hour when required

Previous dispatch, logistics or yard experience would be useful, but isn't essential. A Class 4 driver's licence, OSH forklift certificate or traffic management experience would also be an advantage.

For the right person, we are happy to provide training and support to help you grow into the role.

Why McVicar Timber?

You’ll be joining an established Canterbury business and a team of practical, hardworking people who support each other.

This is a varied role where no two days are quite the same. You’ll have the opportunity to take ownership of dispatch, solve problems and play an important part in making sure our customers receive the right timber, at the right time.

Hours are generally Monday to Friday, 7.00am–4.00pm, although some flexibility is required when needed to keep products moving efficiently.

Sound like you?

Apply online with your CV and cover letter.