Forklift Operators

At Port Otago, we can provide full training to become a Forklift Operator and support you to become OSH Forklift Certified – all while getting paid.

About the Role

Our Forklift Operators cover a range of duties including, but not limited to:

Safely operate forklifts within multiple Supply Chain facilities, making sure product is handled safely and efficiently
Timely loading and unloading of rail, trucks and shipping containers to ensure customers demands are meet.
Accurately receipting, dispatching, and managing stock across Port Otago warehouse using our Warehouse Management Systems

You will join our team on a permanent, full-time basis, which will include:

Guaranteed 40 hours per week, plus overtime as required. This may include some weekend and shift work depending on shipping and supply chain demands.
The potential to work at any of our warehouses based in Port Chalmers, Mosgiel or Dunedin (Cold Stores), working with various products such as Fish, Dairy and Timber.

Why us?

Starting rate is $28.08 per hour, and once you have completed your training with us, you will move to the experienced rate of $30.78 per hour.
Health insurance is paid for you, your partner and dependent children (valued at $6,600 p.a.).
Superannuation is matched up to 7% after 6 months service.

In addition to the total minimum package (outlined above), the following is up for grabs:

Overtime over 40 hours is paid at time and a half of the hourly rate.
Second shift allowance of $7.44 per hour when working from 3-11pm.
$2 per hour allowance when working in our Coldstores.
Free parking and EV Chargers.
Wellness Programme and initiatives such as Health Checks, Fruit Boxes and Free Period Products.
Full PPE (personal protective equipment) will be provided including boots.
Contribution towards relocation costs of up to $5k to Dunedin.

Apply here: Current vacancies

Kaimahi profile: Forklift Operator

Living in Dunedin

The Dunedin vibe is vibrant, yet relaxed.

Many locals have chosen to live in Dunedin (population 133,000) because it’s a great place to raise children, buy an affordable house and enjoy access to the great outdoors.

The best of New Zealand is on Dunedin’s doorstep. Fabulous surfing beaches run the length of the region’s coast, while it’s only a couple of hours’ drive inland to enjoy spectacular mountains and lakes. If you enjoy space, adventure or quality family time, Dunedin is a super spot to live, work and play in.

· In the most recent biennial Quality of Life Survey (led by Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin City Councils), 83% of Dunedinites rated their overall quality of life positively, citing health and wellbeing, lifestyle and financial wellbeing as the top three drivers.

· Dunedin’s median house sale price is $625,000 (Nov 2025, REINZ), with a wide range of suburbs, house types and easy work commutes to choose from.

· Otago’s schooling options – primary and secondary – are particularly good, especially for the relatively small size of the city. A full list of schools is available on the Governments “Education Counts” website.