Qualified Deck Hand; QFD

Jump on board our deep-water fleet, a league of 12 fishing vessels operating year-round from Cape Reinga to the Ross Sea. Our deep-sea vessels can be at sea for up to 12 weeks at a time, catching, processing, and packaging seafood onboard, delivering the finest New Zealand seafood to tables worldwide.

As a Qualified Deckhand
, you'll be hands‑on ensuring smooth operations on deck, working across our diverse fleet of vessels located in Timaru or Tauranga. Your responsibilities include handling fishing gear, preparing the vessel for fishing activities, assisting with the catch processing, and maintaining equipment to meet quality and safety standards. You'll be involved in trawl setup, hauling, and shooting gear, performing deck duties like line handling and winch operation, as well as conducting repairs such as net mending and rope splicing.

Supporting factory operations on board and participating in safety drills are important parts of the role.

This is an Independent Contractor role (self-employment) where our vessels are located in Timaru and Tauranga. You are normally expected to work 12 weeks on and 6 weeks off (some vessels are 6 weeks on/6 weeks off) while enjoying endless amounts of food, staying connected with Wi‑Fi, and earning all year‑round.

• Assist in trawl set‑up, hauling, and shooting gear to ensure efficient fishing operations.
• Perform deck duties including handling lines, operating winches, and keeping the deck organised and safe.
• Conduct repairs and maintenance on fishing gear and vessel equipment, including net mending and rope splicing.
• Load and unload supplies and catch, ensuring proper handling and storage.
• Support fish processing and packing on deck or in the factory, ensuring compliance with product quality standards.
• Participate actively in safety drills and emergency procedures, maintaining knowledge of muster points.
• Follow safety protocols and wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as hard hats, gumboots, wet weather gear, hearing protection, life jackets, and thermal clothing.
• Ensure all deck gear and equipment are properly maintained and secured to prevent hazards, especially during rough weather.
• Take on watch duties when required, supporting the Skipper and First Mate.

You are adaptable and resilient, thriving in the dynamic and sometimes challenging environment  work well within a close‑knit team and practice self‑discipline to maintain safety and operational standards. Physically and mentally prepared for long hours and demanding work, you take pride in your quality of work and attention to detail. You're eager to develop your skills further and grow into senior roles on board.

• Advanced Deckhand Fishing Certification (ADH‑F) or equivalent qualification.
• Proven experience working on fishing vessels or other maritime roles.
• Practical skills in deck operations including net mending, rope splicing, and operation of deck machinery.
• Proven ability to handle the physical and mental demands of life at sea.
• Current Maritime medical certification or the ability to obtain one.

Have you been recommended by someone currently working or engaged with Sanford? We know great people refer great people—and we're always keen to welcome high‑quality crew through trusted referrals. To be eligible for our Refer‑a‑Mate rewards
, be sure to include the name of the person who referred you when you apply.

Terms and conditions apply - refer to the DWF Referral Scheme Policy via the People and Culture team.

Sanford offers endless opportunities, with a diverse team of over 1500 people working in various roles, including remote locations like the seas surrounding Antarctica. Join us to deliver the highest quality seafood to plates worldwide.

You must be eligible to work in New Zealand. Our recruitment process includes pre‑engagement checks including criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing, and a medical assessment.