Qualified Deck Hand (QFD)

About the Company At Sanford, we take pride in our rich history of over 100 years in the seafood industry. We are passionate about what we do and are excited about the future ahead. Our vision centers on leadership in New Zealand seafood, which we achieve through a value-driven approach that emphasizes care, passion, integrity, and collaboration in all our endeavors. About the Role We invite you to join our deep-water fleet, which consists of 12 fishing vessels operating year-round from Cape Reinga to the Ross Sea. Our deep-sea vessels are at sea for periods of up to 12 weeks, during which we catch, process, and package seafood onboard, delivering the finest New Zealand seafood to tables around the world. As a Qualified Deck Hand, you will play a vital role in ensuring smooth operations on deck while working with our diverse fleet of vessels based in Timaru. This position is classified as an Independent Contractor role, where you can typically expect to work for 12 weeks followed by 6 weeks off, although some vessels may have a schedule of 6 weeks on and 6 weeks off. While at sea, you will enjoy ample meals, stay connected through Wi-Fi, and have the opportunity to earn throughout the year. Responsibilities In this role, your responsibilities will include: - Assisting with trawl setup, hauling, and shooting of gear. - Cleaning and maintaining the deck to ensure safety and functionality of all equipment. - Participating in safety drills, adhering to safety protocols, and maintaining safety equipment. - Repairing and maintaining fishing gear and vessel equipment. - Loading and unloading supplies and catch while ensuring proper handling and storage. - Supporting factory operations as needed. About You We are looking for candidates who demonstrate a positive attitude that aligns with our core values of care, passion, integrity, and teamwork. You will be committed to health and safety for yourself and your crew. You should be adept at working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, possess strong teamwork skills, and manage your time effectively between shifts. An openness to learning and embracing new opportunities is essential, along with being physically and mentally fit to meet the challenges of life at sea. What We Are Looking For The ideal candidate will hold an Advanced Deckhand Fishing Certification (ADH-F) or an equivalent qualification. Previous experience on a fishing vessel or in other maritime roles is preferred, as well as a proven ability to handle the physical demands of the role and life at sea. At Sanford, we offer a wealth of opportunities within a diverse team of over 1,500 individuals working in various roles, including in remote areas such as the seas surrounding Antarctica. Join us in our mission to deliver the highest quality seafood to plates around the globe. Eligibility and Recruitment Process Candidates must be eligible to work in New Zealand. Our recruitment process includes pre-engagement checks, which encompass a criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing, and a medical assessment.