Experienced Knifehands - Meat Processing

Silver Fern Farms Kennington is one of our smaller Processing Sites, with 60+ Team Members at the height of the season. Located just off State Highway 1 in the relaxed, family-friendly community of Kennington, the site is 10 minutes north of Invercargill and 30 minutes south of Winton.

We are looking for motivated people to join our team in the New Year commencing early January 2026. Whether you're looking to gain transferable skills to set you up for your future, or career development opportunities into quality control, health and safety, leadership and beyond - we provide ongoing training and support to help you reach your goals.

Te mahi, our working arrangements:

• Earn between $28.82/hr - $38/hr based on experience and skill level.
• Usually, 40 hours per week during peak production season, plus overtime opportunities.
• Minimum $43/hr production overtime rate.
• 8-hour shifts, day shift hours are between 6:00am to 4:00pm and evening shifts times vary from 4:00pm to 1:00am.
• All work clothing and safety gear is provided.

Te tikanga, the job requirements:

• Previous knife-hand experience, preferably with meat products
• You're an active team member who can work closely with others and bring a positive, hardworking attitude.
• Able to understand and follow health and safety, quality, and technical compliance requirements.
• Eligible to work in New Zealand.
• Must be 18 years or older to meet audit requirements.
• Able to pass our pre-employment medical checks, criminal convictions check, and physical fitness requirements.

Ngā hua, our benefits:

• Discounted staff meat sales to help nourish you and your whānau.
• On-the-job training and opportunities for career development.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing confidential counselling and wellbeing support to all employees and their eligible family members.

Te ahurea, why work at Silver Fern Farms:

Silver Fern Farms is all about Creating Goodness from the Farms the World Needs. We strive to continuously improve our operations, upskill our people and foster an environment of mutual learning. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your skills and progress with New Zealand's market leader in quality red meat production, with customers in over 60 countries around the world. We're a purpose-led organisation with a proud story to tell. Driven by our passion, our innovation, and most importantly our people, we're helping to shape the future of food on the global stage.

Silver Fern Farms is working hard to maintain a drug and alcohol-free workplace. Pre-employment drug screening is mandatory.

Tono mai, to apply:

If you're a hard worker looking to earn a good living, we'd love to hear from you. Click the 'Apply' button below to submit your application or find out more.

Please note, we are unable to accept overseas applications for these positions.