Meal Plant Operator - Fishing Vessel

Jump on board our deep-water fleet, a league of 13 fishing vessels operating year-round from Cape Reinga to the Ross Sea. Our deep sea vessels can be at sea for up to 12 weeks at a time, catching, processing, and packaging seafood onboard - delivering the finest New Zealand seafood to tables worldwide.

We’re currently seeking an experienced Meal Plant Operator (Independent Contractor) to join one of our deep water factory trawlers, San Enterprise. This role plays a critical part in maximising value from our catch through the safe, efficient operation of the onboard fish meal and fish oil plant.

The role As the Meal Plant Operator, you’ll work closely with the Factory Manager and Engineering team, taking ownership of the vessel’s Fish Meal Plant operations. This includes processing, storing, monitoring, and maintaining fish meal and fish oil production equipment while ensuring accurate recording of daily outputs. This is a hands-on role requiring strong technical capability, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to maintenance and safety in a demanding offshore environment.

This is an Independent Contractor (self employed) role operating on a trip on / trip off rotation (6 weeks on / 6 weeks off). You are paid for your time off the vessel.

Working at sea comes with its challenges. You’ll live and work with the same crew for extended periods, with vessels operating 24/7 for the duration of each trip. For the right person, this is the perfect balance of working hard at sea, then enjoying meaningful time off on land.

About the vessel – San Enterprise San Enterprise is a 64m is stern type deep sea trawler that targets hoki, ling, hake, warehou and arrow squid. They also have the facilities to produce fishmeal on board. The San Enterprise is due in port 12th of August (subject to change).

About you

To be successful in this role, you’ll bring:

• Proven experience operating, monitoring, and maintaining a Fish Meal Plant or similar industrial processing equipment
• A strong eye for detail with the ability to accurately record and maintain production data
• A positive, practical attitude and the ability to work well in close-knit teams for extended periods
• A strong commitment to health and safety - for yourself and those around you
• Physical and mental resilience suited to long trips and a 24/7 operating environment

About Sanford Sanford offers endless opportunities, with a diverse team of over 1,500 people working across our fishing vessels and onshore operations. From Timaru to Stewart Island, and the seas surrounding Antarctica, we’re proud to deliver New Zealand’s highest-quality seafood to plates worldwide.

You must be eligible to work in New Zealand. Our recruitment process includes pre-engagement checks including a criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing and medical assessment.