If you are looking for a rewarding role with great pay and training included, this process worker job in Balclutha, New Zealand is an excellent opportunity. Silver Fern Farms Finegand Processing Site is currently hiring hardworking individuals to join their cleaning team. With no prior experience required, full on-the-job training provided, and competitive hourly rates starting from $31.60, this position offers a secure career pathway. If you’re motivated, reliable, and eligible to work in New Zealand, this role could be your gateway into the country’s thriving food production industry.
About Silver Fern Farms
Silver Fern Farms is one of New Zealand’s largest and most respected food companies, employing thousands of people across multiple processing sites nationwide. The Finegand Processing Site in Balclutha alone employs more than 1,200 team members during peak season, making it a vital hub in the company’s operations. Situated just 20 minutes south of Milton, an hour east of Gore, and an hour south of Dunedin, Finegand plays a key role in providing high-quality meat products to both local and international markets.
As a global exporter with customers in over 60 countries, Silver Fern Farms has built a strong reputation for quality, sustainability, and innovation. Employees working at Finegand are not just part of a local operation—they contribute to a company with global reach and a proud New Zealand heritage.
Mission and Values
Silver Fern Farms is a purpose-driven organization guided by its mission of “Creating Goodness from the Farms the World Needs.” The company places strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and employee growth. Its values include collaboration, continuous improvement, and respect for people and the environment. As an employee, you’ll be part of a team that values safety, training, and personal development, while working together to deliver premium food products to the world.
Job Summary – Process Worker (Cleaning Team)
The process worker job in Balclutha involves working as part of the cleaning team at the Finegand Processing Site. Your role will ensure that work environments remain clean, hygienic, and ready for production each day. The position requires teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to handle chemicals and cleaning equipment safely.
This role is particularly attractive for those with no prior experience, as all training is provided on the job. It is a fixed-site role requiring applicants to be at least 18 years old and legally eligible to work in New Zealand.
Key Role Objectives
The primary objective of this role is to maintain high hygiene standards at the Finegand Processing Site. Process workers will play an essential part in supporting production teams by ensuring compliance with health, safety, and quality standards, while working collaboratively in a positive team environment.
Key Responsibilities
As a Process Worker in the cleaning team, your duties will include:
- Completing thorough cleaning of production environments.
- Handling and safely using chemicals and cleaning equipment.
- Following health, safety, and hygiene standards at all times.
- Ensuring all work areas are hygienic and ready for production.
- Working closely with team members to meet cleaning targets.
- Following quality and technical compliance requirements.
- Adapting to night shifts and varying schedules.
- Meeting physical fitness requirements for cleaning duties.
- Participating in training programs to improve skills.
- Supporting a safe, positive, and drug-free workplace.
Required Qualifications and Skills
- No prior experience required – full training provided.
- Must be at least 18 years old (audit requirement).
- Physically fit and able to handle cleaning duties.
- Comfortable using chemicals and cleaning equipment.
- Team-oriented with a positive and hardworking attitude.
- Eligible to work in New Zealand (citizenship, residency, or valid visa).
- Able to pass pre-employment medical checks, physical assessments, and a criminal convictions check.
- Must pass pre-employment drug screening.
Work Environment and Culture
The Finegand Processing Site operates as a large, team-driven workplace where safety and collaboration are top priorities. Employees work closely together during shifts, often developing a strong sense of camaraderie. As part of the cleaning team, you’ll contribute to the safe and efficient operation of one of New Zealand’s largest meat processing plants. The culture emphasizes respect, continuous improvement, and a shared passion for delivering quality.
Salary and Benefits
- Minimum $31.60 per hour upon completing training.
- Overtime opportunities with minimum $43/hr during production peaks.
- Around 40 hours per week during peak season, with additional overtime available.
- Night shift hours between 8:00 pm – 5:30 am, or afternoon shifts from 4:00 pm – 12:30 am depending on production.
- All work clothing and safety gear provided.
- Access to discounted quality meat at staff “mates’ rates.”
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for confidential counselling and well-being support.
Training and Growth Opportunities
Silver Fern Farms provides structured on-the-job training, ensuring that even applicants with no prior experience can succeed. Beyond initial training, there are opportunities for career development across different areas of food processing, compliance, and leadership. Many workers use entry-level roles as a starting point to build long-term careers with the company.
Job Type and Contract Details
- Job Type: Full-time, permanent employment.
- Location: Finegand Processing Site, Balclutha, New Zealand.
- Shifts: Primarily night shifts or afternoons, depending on production requirements.
- Application Deadline: 12 October 2025, 11:50 PM.
How to Apply
Applicants must be legally eligible to work in New Zealand. Unfortunately, overseas applications cannot be accepted. To apply for this role, visit the official listing here: Apply on Indeed.
Why Join Silver Fern Farms?
Working at Silver Fern Farms Finegand offers more than just a paycheck. It’s an opportunity to join a supportive team at one of New Zealand’s most respected companies, earn excellent wages, and gain valuable training and career development. The company is committed to its people, its customers, and the future of sustainable food production. If you’re a hardworking individual who wants to build a stable career in New Zealand’s red meat industry, Silver Fern Farms is the right place to grow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need prior cleaning or processing experience?
No, full training is provided.
2. What is the minimum hourly rate?
$31.60 per hour, with overtime at $43 per hour during peak production.
3. What shifts are available?
Most work is on night shifts (8:00 pm – 5:30 am) or afternoon shifts (4:00 pm – 12:30 am).
4. Is this role open to overseas applicants?
No, applicants must already be eligible to work in New Zealand.
5. What benefits are provided?
Staff discounts on meat products, safety gear, training, overtime pay, and access to the Employee Assistance Programme.
6. Do I need to be drug-free?
Yes, Silver Fern Farms maintains a drug and alcohol-free workplace.
7. What is the minimum age requirement?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
8. Is accommodation provided?
Accommodation is not included, so applicants should live locally or arrange their own housing.
