If you are looking for a stable and rewarding process worker job in Balclutha, Silver Fern Farms Finegand Processing Site is hiring motivated individuals to join their cleaning team. This role offers competitive pay, full training, and a supportive team environment. Workers play a vital part in keeping the facility clean, safe, and production-ready. With hourly wages starting from $31.60 and opportunities for overtime, this is a great chance to build a career in New Zealand’s leading red meat processing company.
About Silver Fern Farms – Company Overview
Silver Fern Farms is one of New Zealand’s largest and most respected food companies. With a proud history and operations across the country, the company is well known for producing premium-quality red meat products. Its customer base spans more than 60 countries worldwide, making it a trusted global brand. The Finegand Processing Site in Balclutha is one of its key facilities, employing over 1,200 team members during peak season.
The company’s mission, “Creating Goodness from the Farms the World Needs,” reflects its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and excellence. Silver Fern Farms is focused on continuous improvement, developing its people, and providing high-quality products to global markets. Employees are encouraged to grow within the company, with training, development, and support available to every team member.
Company Values and Culture
At Silver Fern Farms, people are at the heart of the business. The company values teamwork, respect, integrity, and continuous learning. Employees are supported through well-structured training programs, access to employee benefits, and opportunities for career growth. Silver Fern Farms also places a strong emphasis on health and safety, ensuring a safe and productive environment for all staff. By joining this workplace, you become part of a community dedicated to excellence and sustainability.
Job Summary – Process Worker Role
The process worker job in Balclutha at Silver Fern Farms Finegand is focused on cleaning operations. The role ensures that work environments remain hygienic, safe, and ready for production the next day. Team members contribute to the smooth running of the plant, ensuring compliance with food safety and workplace health standards.
This role suits individuals who enjoy hands-on work, can follow procedures carefully, and like working in a team environment. No prior experience is necessary because Silver Fern Farms provides full on-the-job training. Workers are given protective clothing, safety equipment, and the support they need to perform effectively.
Detailed Job Responsibilities
As a Process Worker in the cleaning team, your duties will include:
- Cleaning work areas and maintaining high hygiene standards.
- Handling chemicals safely and using cleaning equipment effectively.
- Following health, safety, and compliance requirements.
- Supporting production readiness by preparing environments for daily operations.
- Working as part of a team to achieve site cleanliness targets.
- Wearing and maintaining provided protective clothing and safety gear.
- Completing assigned tasks efficiently and within scheduled timeframes.
- Ensuring workplace safety for yourself and others.
- Reporting any maintenance or safety concerns.
- Contributing positively to team culture and company goals.
Required Qualifications and Skills
- Must be 18 years or older (audit requirement).
- Eligible to work in New Zealand (no overseas applications accepted).
- Ability to follow instructions and health/safety guidelines.
- Physically fit and able to pass medical and fitness checks.
- Willingness to handle cleaning chemicals and equipment.
- Positive attitude and team-oriented mindset.
- Ability to pass a criminal convictions check.
- No previous experience required – full training provided.
Work Environment & Culture
The Finegand Processing Site operates with a strong sense of teamwork and shared responsibility. During peak season, work is usually between 8:00pm and 5:30am, while day-shift hours typically fall between 4:00pm and 12:30am. Employees can expect a collaborative environment where safety, hygiene, and respect are top priorities. Silver Fern Farms is proud of its diverse workforce, offering a welcoming and inclusive workplace culture.
Salary & Benefits
- Base Pay: $31.60 per hour after training.
- Overtime Rate: $43 per hour during production overtime.
- Work Hours: Around 40 hours per week during peak season, with overtime available.
- Other Benefits:
- Discounted quality meat products (“mates’ rates”) for employees and families.
- Full on-the-job training and career development opportunities.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for well-being and support.
- All safety clothing and gear provided.
Training & Growth Opportunities
Silver Fern Farms invests in employee development by offering structured training programs. Workers start with full training in cleaning, safety, and compliance requirements. Over time, motivated employees can move into other processing roles or advance into leadership positions within the company. This is an excellent entry point for individuals seeking long-term career growth in New Zealand’s food industry.
Job Type & Contract Details
- Job Title: Process Worker (Cleaning Team)
- Location: Finegand Processing Site, Balclutha, New Zealand
- Job ID: 3042
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Application Deadline: 12 October 2025, 11:50 PM
- Shifts: Evening and night shifts, with some day-shift opportunities.
- Contract: Permanent with seasonal peak demand.
How to Apply
If you are a hardworking individual looking to earn good wages and grow with a leading New Zealand company, this job is a great fit. To apply, visit Indeed – Silver Fern Farms Process Worker Jobs and submit your application before the deadline.
Why Join Silver Fern Farms?
Working at Silver Fern Farms means more than just a paycheck. You become part of a purpose-led organisation shaping the future of food production globally. With competitive pay, a supportive work culture, and career growth opportunities, this role is perfect for anyone looking to build a stable and rewarding career in Balclutha.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need prior experience to apply for this role?
No, full training is provided for all new workers.
2. What is the minimum pay rate?
You will earn at least $31.60 per hour after completing training.
3. Is overtime available?
Yes, production overtime is paid at a minimum rate of $43 per hour.
4. What are the usual working hours?
During peak season, shifts generally run from 8:00pm to 5:30am, with some day shifts from 4:00pm to 12:30am.
5. Do I need to buy my own work gear?
No, Silver Fern Farms provides all work clothing and safety equipment.
6. Can overseas applicants apply?
No, only candidates eligible to work in New Zealand can apply.
7. What checks are required before starting work?
You must pass a medical check, physical fitness test, and criminal convictions check.
8. What benefits are included with this role?
Employees enjoy discounted meat products, career development, and access to well-being support services.
