Yard Operative

About Sims Metal

Sims Limited, established in Australia in 1917, is a worldwide name in metal recycling and circular solutions for technology. The organisation supports circularity and decarbonisation by providing recycled feedstock and repurposed products that help conserve natural resources. With more than 4,100 employees and over 155 sites in 13 countries, Sims offers the scale and stability of a publicly listed company, along with a strong focus on development and career progression.

The company promotes internal growth and invests in learning so employees can build long-term careers. Its purpose is to create a world without waste.

Role overview

This is an immediate-start opportunity based in Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand. You will report to the Yard Supervisor and help safely operate machinery to sort, grade, and purchase metals. Successful applicants will receive full training.

Key duties

• Assist with loading and unloading trucks, skip bins, and trailers.
• Help manage traffic within the site using clear and positive communication.
• Operate machinery such as forklifts and/or excavators when licensed to do so.
• Deliver a high standard of service to customers.
• Inspect, grade, and sort different types of metal.
• Work in line with health, safety, and wellbeing procedures, taking personal responsibility for OH&S compliance.

What you need to succeed

• A strong eye for detail, especially when identifying and separating different materials.
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn new skills through training.
• Solid written and verbal communication abilities.
• Comfort with numbers and basic computer use.
• Prior experience in customer service or a similar environment.

Desirable qualifications

• A valid forklift ticket.
• WTR licence is considered an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive pay with overtime eligibility.
• Practical on-the-job training, including support toward certified tickets and progression opportunities.
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave at base pay for the nominated primary carer, or 6 weeks at base pay for the nominated non-primary carer/partner.
• Access to discounted Southern Cross health insurance for you and your family.
• Employer KiwiSaver contributions matched at 3%.
• The chance to work for a sustainability-focused organisation recognised as the most sustainable corporation in 2024 on Corporate Knights’ Global 100 index.

Additional information

Applications close on 19 Jun 2026 at 11:00pm NZDT. Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume.

Workplace values

Sims promotes a safe, inclusive, and accountable workplace. The organisation is committed to zero harm, responsible environmental stewardship, and equal opportunity. Its purpose pillars include being safe and well, working together, being accountable and transparent, innovating consistently, leading with purpose, and celebrating success.