Machine Operator

WM New Zealand is hiring a Machine Operator for its Christchurch site. The role is full-time and onsite, focusing on safe, efficient operation of processing equipment to achieve steady outputs. It’s well suited to someone who enjoys hands-on work, can analyse problems on the fly and keeps health and safety front and centre.

The employer operates PRNZ, a joint venture with Aliaxis that combines WM New Zealand’s waste collection expertise with plastics manufacturing know-how. The aim is to close the loop on plastic waste and support a circular economy, while teams on the ground tackle practical tasks that benefit communities and the environment.

If you want a role that makes a difference in people’s lives and local places, this Christchurch opportunity could be a strong match.

Shaping outputs on the production floor

On a typical shift, the operator runs all processing equipment with safety as a priority, while working to keep production steady and efficient. Materials are checked before processing to ensure the correct type, and any bins or bags are kept free of contaminants so outputs stay clean. Machine settings are watched and adjusted as needed to sustain performance, and finished products are clearly labelled for storage. The role also involves wrapping and readying items for safe storage.

Quality is a continuous concern, with ongoing checks to confirm that products meet expected standards. The operator participates in a safety-first culture and company-wide improvement efforts, and conducts duties in a way that minimises risk and supports compliant operations.

What you’ll bring to the production floor

To be in scope for this position, WM New Zealand is looking for a few core capabilities and credentials:

• Clear communication, both written and spoken
• A forklift certificate (OSH) or F endorsement, or relevant experience is highly valued
• First-aid knowledge or certification
• A solid focus on health and safety practices
• A good level of fitness with the ability to lift about 10 kg during a shift
• Willingness to adapt to changing days and hours
• Dependable with your own transport

Nice-to-haves

The listing does not specify extras beyond the essentials.

Pay, benefits and practical details

The role offers a competitive salary along with opportunities for career progression. Employees can access discounted health insurance and a range of retailer discounts for themselves and their families.

It’s a full-time, onsite position based in Christchurch. WM New Zealand is an equal opportunity employer and promotes drug and alcohol-free workplaces. Applicants should be in New Zealand and hold a current work visa/residency or NZ citizenship.

Advice for applicants

Lead your resume with hands-on processing experience and a record of safety-minded thinking, showing how you’ve kept machines running and outputs consistent.

Make the must-haves easy to verify by calling out any forklift operation or safety training you’ve completed, plus a concrete example of lifting 10 kg or more during a shift and how you kept yourself and teammates safe.

Be prepared to talk through a time when you adjusted machine settings to maintain output or solved a quality issue caused by a contaminant, including what you did and the outcome.

When you’re in the interview, ask about how the site measures safety improvements and the first 90 days’ expectations for the operator, as well as what equipment is currently in use and any upcoming process upgrades.

How to apply

To apply for this role, click the 'I'm interested' button.

WM New Zealand is an equal opportunity employer and promotes drug- and alcohol-free workplaces. Candidates must be in New Zealand and hold a current work visa/residency or NZ citizenship.