Cargo Handler - Experienced
Port Otago Group’s business comprises a regional container terminal, bulk port activities, cruise, and property investment and development. Based at Port Chalmers (Dunedin), we service South Canterbury, Otago, and Southland, working with customers to streamline their supply chains. Our culture is hands-on; safety focused and encourages continuous improvement.
Our diverse portfolio means there is always something on the go and as a business we are collaborative, fast-paced and always open.
We’re looking for confident, capable operators to join our Cargo Handler team on a full time permanent basis. If you’ve operated straddle carriers, sideloader’s or similar heavy port equipment in a container or cargo terminal, we’d love to hear from you. In return you’ll get a great package and a harbourside lifestyle, with Dunedin city just 20 minutes away.
About the Role:
- Operating straddle carriers and sideloader’s
- Operating our STS (ship-to-shore) gantry cranes
- Lashing and securing containers to vessels
- Handling mooring lines to secure and release vessels at our terminal
- Other terminal duties as required
Our team work outside in all weather conditions and at heights. Full PPE is provided including work boots.
About You:
- Experience operating straddles, sideloader’s or similar heavy equipment in a port or terminal
- A strong commitment to health and safety, for yourself and your team
- A dependable, team-first approach. You back your crew and adapt when plans change
- A positive, respectful, solutions-focused attitude
We welcome experienced operators from all backgrounds, and women are strongly encouraged to apply.
Shifts and roster:
This is shift work, including days, late nights (up to 2am) and weekends. Our three teams rotate through a roster cycle, so you’ll always know which pattern is coming up:
- 2 weeks on vessel day shift: 6am–4pm, at least 4 x 10-hour shifts on any day, as ships call
- 2 weeks on vessel late shift: 4pm–2am, at least 4 x 10-hour shifts on any day, as ships call
- 2 weeks in the yard: Monday to Friday, 5 x 8-hour shifts (you’ll work either 7am–3pm or 3pm–11pm each time you rotate into the yard), with Saturday overtime as required
You’ll get an indicative roster each Friday, with one guaranteed day off and one or two rostered days off that may change with shipping. Saturday to Monday shifts are confirmed on Friday, and Tuesday to Friday shifts by 3pm the day before. You’re guaranteed at least 40 hours a week, plus availability for one additional shift (covered by your allowance). Weeks of up to 50 hours may be needed, mainly in peak season which is November to July each year.
Why us?
You’ll receive just over $90k per annum for a 40-hour week, with a total package value of over $110k per annum, including:
- Availability allowance: $108 a week for being available to work one additional shift (and an overtime payment for that shift when you work it).
- Health insurance: covers you, your partner and dependent children ($8,800 p.a.).
- Superannuation: matched up to 7% after 6 months’ service.
Plus:
- $15k towards relocating to Dunedin
· Time and a half ($65/hr) for all hours worked between 50 and 60 and Double time ($87/hr) for voluntary overtime over 50 hours
- 5 weeks annual leave
- Free parking and EV chargers
- On-site kitchen, showers, changing rooms, hairdryers and free period products
- Wellness programme, including health checks and fruit boxes
Heads up:
- This role is based at Port Chalmers, Dunedin
- A full clean NZ driver licence and eligibility to work in New Zealand are required
- You must pass criminal conviction screening, ACC checks and a full medical, including a drug and alcohol test and functional movement testing
- We carry out random drug and alcohol testing
How do I apply?
Apply online at www.portotago.co.nz/careers with your up-to-date CV and a short cover letter. Tell us about the equipment you’ve operated and, if you’re relocating, what’s drawing you to Ōtepoti Dunedin. Questions? Email people@portotago.co.nz.
Applications close 5pm, Sunday 8 November 2026. We’re reviewing applications as they come in, so don’t delay.
