KLM - Sawmill Machine Operator

Kiwi Lumber Masterton are looking for high-level machine operator to run the green mill at our sawmill. Your workday will depend on your level of expertise, but roles are typically rotated on a 2-hourly basis, meaning that you could be working on 3 or 4 different machines per shift. This really helps you to learn new skills and also makes your workday more interesting and productive.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS:

Initially you will be introduced to the various sawmilling processes and products. By sorting and packing the various products, you will gain a better understanding of our production and quality standards. This knowledge and experience are critical before moving onto the more automated machines. We provide you with quality training through this exciting process.

We work 50 hours per week from Monday to Friday. The sawmill works on a split shift, with one team working from 5.00am to 3.30pm and another team from 7.00am to 5.30pm. You have the option to join either one of these teams.

An indicative pay range for this role is $26 - $30, depending on your skills and experience. Over and above this, there is also an opportunity to receive a fortnightly production bonus.

THE ROLE:

We are looking for proactive thinkers who are down-to-earth and committed to manufacturing excellence and on-going improvement. You will bring the following qualities:

• Experience in operating sawmill machines
• Mechanically minded with the ability to troubleshoot and problem solve
• Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills
• Good hand/eye coordination
• Be able to do medium level of physical work, with low impact on the body

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

We offer our employees:

• Competitive hourly rate with opportunity to increase with production bonus
• Retention bonus for all hours worked in first year
• Ongoing training, development and promotion opportunities
• Health checks and flu vaccines (optional)
• Free / subsidised medical insurance (optional)
• Staff Referral Scheme - successful nomination and receive $1000

If you want to be supported in developing your career and rewarded for what you do, then make the move to Kiwi Lumber!

ABOUT US:

We provide extensive ongoing training and development opportunities for our employees and prefer to promote from within when we can. As a result, we have many long-term employees who have successfully risen through the ranks, so if you want to be supported in developing your career and be rewarded for what you do then make the move to Kiwi Lumber.

Kiwi Lumber is a privately owned, growing and progressive sawmilling company marketing Radiata Pine to the USA, Australia, Europe, Asia and New Zealand markets. The group currently employees over 500 staff across five sites located in Masterton, Dannevirke, Ohinewai, Putaruru and Gisborne.

Kiwi Lumber produce an extensive range of products that are specific to the needs of our domestic and international customers. By providing a consistent quality of resource along with the use of modern technology and systems, Kiwi Lumber is able to produce a diverse range of products to stringent quality and service standards.

WHERE TO FROM HERE?

To apply, click on the button attaching a covering note/letter and your CV

For more information on our business please visit www.kiwilumber.co.nz or https://www.facebook.com/kiwilumber

You are very welcome to visit the sawmill to collect a Pre Employment Application Form from the Administration Office

Full Time

Job no: 2026-0173

Salary range: $26 - $30

Location: Masterton - 10 Norman Avenue, Waingawa, Masterton, 5885

Closing Date: Friday, 11 September 2026