Yard Operator / General Hand

Company Overview

Sims Limited, established in Australia in 1917, is a global frontrunner in metal recycling and circular economy solutions. With over 4,100 employees and more than 155 facilities worldwide, Sims operates across 13 countries. Known for advancing sustainability and decarbonisation by supplying recycled materials, Sims is committed to fostering employee growth through promotion-from-within and continuous learning opportunities. It is a publicly listed company offering career stability and growth.

Position Summary

This role is based in the Napier yard and focuses on forklift operation and manual handling of materials along with delivering excellent customer service. It is suited for someone practical and energetic willing to learn and grow within a warehouse environment. Comprehensive training will be provided to successful candidates.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts to load, unload, and transfer trucks, bins, and trailers safely and efficiently.
• Sort, grade, weigh, purchase, briquette, bag, and palletise various non-ferrous metals to prepare for transfer and inventory checks.
• Attend to on-site customer inquiries and provide service assistance during material drop-offs.
• Maintain a safe working environment by following all occupational health and safety procedures and policies.

Candidate Requirements

• Strong attention to detail with ability to identify and distinguish different types of non-ferrous metals.
• Positive, can-do attitude open to ongoing skills development and training.
• Effective written and oral communication skills, basic numeracy, and fundamental computer literacy.
• Previous experience in customer service or relevant operational roles is advantageous.
• Possession of a forklift license and WTR (Wheels, Tracks, Rollers) license is desirable but not mandatory.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage with eligibility for overtime paid at time-and-a-half rates.
• On-the-job training and certification opportunities.
• 12 weeks paid parental leave at base pay for primary caregivers, and 6 weeks paid leave for secondary carers or partners.
• Discounts on Southern Cross health insurance plans for employees and their families.
• KiwiSaver retirement contributions matched by the company at 3.5%.
• Work with an organisation recognized as the most sustainable corporation in 2024 by Corporate Knights Global 100 index.

Additional Information

At Sims, we aim to be the safest and most responsible recycling company globally. Our culture encourages safety, community engagement, innovation, and accountability, supported by our Pillars of Purpose: Be Safe + Well, Band Together, Be Accountable + Transparent, Consistently Innovate, Inspire with Purpose, and Celebrate + Have Fun. We uphold equal opportunity employment practices and value diversity within our workforce.

Applications close September 9, 2026, at 11:00 PM NZDT.