Machine Operator

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

WM New Zealand is hiring a full‑time onsite Machine Operator in Christchurch to operate processing equipment safely and efficiently, monitor performance and quality, and carry out duties assigned by the shift supervisor or factory manager. This role demands a motivated, diligent individual who can analyse issues, optimise outcomes, and champion a safety‑first culture, with a strong commitment to HSEQ policies and continuous improvement. Essential qualifications include clear verbal and written communication, forklift OSH certification or relevant experience, First Aid knowledge, good health and safety awareness, the ability to lift up to 10 kg, and flexibility in days and hours with reliable transport. Benefits include a competitive salary, career progression, and health insurance discounts. To apply, click I’m interested and apply early; WM is an EEO employer and you must be in NZ with a valid visa residency or citizenship.

Company Description

About us

PRNZ (Plastics Recycling New Zealand) is a joint venture between WM New Zealand and Aliaxis, bringing together expertise in waste collection and plastics manufacturing. Our mission is to close the loop on plastic waste, reducing the need for virgin materials and supporting a circular economy.

Job Description

About the role

Machine Operator is responsible to operate all processing equipment and plant in a safe and efficient manner ensuring optimum outputs are achieved. Undertake all and any other duties as tasked by shift supervisor, production manager or factory manager.

This key operational role will require someone who is motivated and diligent with the ability to analyse issues critically and optimise outcomes. It is also essential that you are fully committed to Health and Safety, follow prescribed policies and procedures, drive a positive culture and lead by example.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Inspect materials prior to processing to ensure it is the correct type.
• Ensure bins or bags material is to be processed into is clean and free of contaminates, bin liners used if needed.
• Monitoring machine performance, machine settings are monitored constantly during the shift and adjusted to maintain performance.
• Monitor quality of all products produced to ensure expected standards are achieved.
• Finished goods are clearly labelled using Waste Management bag labels and are wrapped ready for storage.
• Participate in the company’s safety-first culture that supports continuous HSEQ improvement and participate in company-wide programs.
• Ensure duties of care obligations are met and that your conduct in the workplace always occurs in a safe manner.
• Participate in processes regarding risk management compliance and internal controls to ensure operations and legal HSEQ risks are effectively managed and minimised.

Qualifications

About you

• Good communication skills verbal and written.
• Forklift OSH certificate, F endorsement or experience highly desirable.
• First Aid certificate or knowledge.
• Strong health and safety awareness.
• A good level of fitness and ability to comfortably lift 10kgs across the shift.
• Flexible in approach to days and hours of work.
• Reliable and have own means of transport.

Additional Information

What is in it for me?

We offer a competitive salary, career progression, access to discounted health insurance and a variety of retail products for you and your family to enjoy just to name a few!

You will also be part of a great team committed to providing a comprehensive one-stop service to meet a broad range of facility, waste, recycling and industrial needs of our clients.

How to apply
To apply for this role click “I’m interested” 

Please note - we do not always work to fixed closing dates and may start considering applications as they are received so we encourage you to apply early. 

WM is an EEO employer and promotes drug and alcohol-free workplaces. 

You must be in New Zealand and hold a current work visa/residency or NZ citizenship.