26th August, 2026
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is keen to build a long-term career in the sawmilling industry.
The Sawmilling Cadet will receive full on-the-job training across all areas of the sawmill, with the goal of becoming a well-rounded, skilled, and competent sawmiller capable of working across a variety of roles within the mill.
The sawmill processes plantation-grown radiata pine logs, converting round logs into precisely cut square and rectangular timber products. The finished timber is used across a range of industries, including housing, landscaping, and general construction.
No previous sawmilling experience is required. What is important is a strong work ethic, reliability, a willingness to learn, and a genuine desire to develop a long-term career within the industry.
Training & Development
Training will begin at the tail end of the mill, where timber is sorted and graded, before progressively moving upstream through the processing line.
The successful candidate will:
- Work alongside experienced team members while learning each role
- Develop skills in timber sorting and grading
- Learn various machine operations throughout the mill
- Progress through different areas once competency is achieved
- Gain an understanding of the full sawmilling process
- Work towards becoming competent across all areas of the sawmill
This is a genuine career development opportunity, with the successful candidate supported throughout their training and progression.
Key Responsibilities - Assist with timber sorting, grading, and processing
- Learn and operate various sawmill machinery as training progresses
- Work safely and efficiently alongside the wider sawmill team
- Assist with general sawmill duties and production requirements
- Complete regular mill clean-up, including sawdust, wood chips, and broken boards around chutes, conveyors, and augers
- Maintain a clean, tidy, and safe work area
- Treat all plant, machinery, and equipment with care
- Identify and report any machinery maintenance or issues as soon as possible
- Complete other duties as directed by the Sawmill Manager
About You We are looking for someone who is:
- Reliable and punctual, with good personal discipline
- A quick learner who listens carefully and can make good decisions
- Hardworking and motivated to develop their skills
- A team player who is respectful and cooperative with managers and colleagues
- Physically fit and comfortable working in a hands-on environment
- Coordinated and comfortable working around machinery
- Positive and proactive when it comes to Health & Safety
- Careful and respectful when working with plant, machinery, and equipment
- A clear and confident communicato
- Looking for a long-term career opportunity rather than a short-term position
Health & Safety Health and Safety is a key priority within the sawmill. The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Follow all Health & Safety policies and procedures
- Maintain a safety-first approach at all times
- Work safely around machinery and moving equipment
- Report hazards, faults, and maintenance requirements promptly
- Take responsibility for their own safety and the safety of those around them
Hours of Work Monday to Friday
6:00am – approximately 4:30pm
The entire team contributes to the daily clean-up of the mill, and this time is paid.
What’s on Offer - Full on-the-job training provided
- No previous sawmilling experience required
- Opportunity to learn all aspects of the sawmill
- Structured progression as skills and competency develop
- Long-term career opportunity
- Starting rate $26 per hour
- Work alongside an experienced and supportive team
If you're reliable, hardworking, physically fit, and keen to learn a skilled trade within the sawmilling industry, this could be a great opportunity to build your career from the ground up. The Process:Be a part of this growing team by applying today with a cover letter and CV or by contacting us on 0800CANRECRUIT ( 0800226732 ) for more information.
Please note candidates must have the right to work in New Zealand at time of application to be considered for this role. Candidates not in New Zealand will not be considered. A Pre-Employment Drug Test will be required.
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