Forklift Drivers – Timber Manufacturing (5 Positions / 2-Shift Operation)

Position: Forklift Driver

Location: Otorohanga, Waikato

Company: OTC Timber Co Ltd

Employment type: Full-time, Permanent

Pay range: $29 – $31 per hour (negotiable based on experience)

Number of Positions: 5

Minimum Hours of Work Per Week: 30

Regular Hours of Work Per Week: 45

Maximum Hours of Work Per Week: 50

About Us

OTC Timber Co Ltd has been manufacturing and remanufacturing timber products in Otorohanga since 1932. We’re a locally owned company employing around 130 staff, known for our safety standards, workmanship, and family-based team culture.

Key Responsibilities

Your duties will be but not limited

·        Operate counter-balance and side-loader forklifts to move, stack, and stage long timber packs.

·        Load and unload trucks and feed machining lines efficiently.

·        Handle product safely in both indoor and outdoor environments.

·        Maintain yard organisation, stock placement, and accurate load records.

·        Follow all workplace health, safety, and housekeeping procedures.

·        Unload Timber from incoming vehicles and stack them to assigned places

·        Locate and move stock of products for storage

·        Identify damages and report shortages or quality deficiencies

·        Transport goods when needed

·        Keep updated records of inventory and activity logs

·        Comply with company policies and legal guidelines

·        Help maintain a safe and orderly environment of the facilities

Skills & Experience Required

·        Current OSH Certificate - Forklift Operator – issued by an accredited NZQA Private Training Establishment

·        Proven forklift experience in timber manufacturing, sawmilling, or heavy yard operations.

·        Demonstrated ability handling long-length timber packs (NOT CHEP pallets or standard warehousing).

·        Confident operating in tight or confined spaces around production equipment.

·        Reliable

·        Physically fit

·        The ability to stand for extended periods.

·        The ability to use labeling and equipment

·        The ability to work in a fast-paced environment

·        Safety-focused

·        Detail Oriented 

You must hold a current OSH Certificate - Forklift Operator – issued by an accredited NZQA Private Training Establishment

OR

2 Years relevant Experience in Forklift Vehicle operation in handling long-length timber packs (NOT CHEP pallets or standard warehousing).

AND

You must Pass a Pre-Employment Drug and Alcohol Test

Hours & Conditions

Two-shift operation:
  • Morning shift: 5:00 am – 2:30 pm (2 positions)
  • Night shift: 2:30 pm – 12:00 am (3 positions)

Minimum Hours of Work Per Week: 30

Regular Hours of Work Per Week: 45

Maximum Hours of Work Per Week: 50
PPE and ongoing training provided.

Why Join Us

·        Secure, long-term employment with a respected New Zealand timber manufacturer.

·        Modern equipment, safe facilities, and supportive team culture.

·        Opportunities to progress within our operation.