Vessel Factory Engineer Trainee

About Sealord Group Ltd

Sealord Group Ltd is the largest seafood company in the Southern Hemisphere with over 60 years of expertise in fishing, aquaculture, processing, and marketing globally. Founded in 1961, the Nelson Sealord branch is jointly owned by the Māori community through Moana New Zealand and by Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd, a worldwide seafood corporation. The company operates extensive deep-water fishing ventures across New Zealand and Australia and maintains strong international partnerships and subsidiaries.

Position Overview

We are seeking Trainee Factory Engineers to join our dedicated team of 1,200 employees. This role offers a unique chance to build a career at sea, including opportunities for professional certification while working. Candidates passionate about the ocean and fishing who possess mechanical or engineering experience are encouraged to apply.

Job Details and Work Environment

Typical vessel trips last between two to six weeks, following a rotation of trips on and off. The work schedule consists of 12-hour shifts alternating on and off duty, with meals provided aboard. The role demands working within small, close-knit teams where a positive attitude, teamwork, and a strong emphasis on safety are essential. Resilience and environmental respect are vital qualities on sea operations.

Candidate Profile

Applicants should have prior mechanical or engineering-related experience, or hold qualifications in trades such as diesel mechanics or fitter and turner. Experience in machinery repair and maintenance, or a personal enthusiasm for working on vehicles or machinery, is advantageous. Candidates must demonstrate commitment, the ability to follow instructions, and a safety-oriented mindset.

Additional Requirements

• A pre-employment drug test and medical assessment are mandatory for appointment.
• Legal entitlement to live and work in New Zealand is required.

Benefits and Development

Sealord fosters an innovative and supportive workplace culture with ongoing coaching, career growth opportunities, succession planning, and internal promotion. The company values performance-based recognition and aims to provide stability and a healthy work-life balance.