Join our small, hands-on team keeping water flowing to farms across the Amuri Basin.
About this Opportunity
We’re looking for a Scheme Operator to join our Operations Team in Culverden. You’ll help run, maintain and repair a large irrigation network of pipes, races and pump stations, making sure our shareholders get reliable water when they need it.
This is a practical, outdoor role with plenty of variety. One day you might be repairing a pump, the next you’re spraying races, checking flows on our Rubicon telemetry system, or letting a farmer know about planned maintenance. You’ll work closely with the Operations Manager and the rest of the team, and you’ll also spend time working on your own in the field.
This is a permanent role of 40 hours per week, plus a share of the on-call roster, which includes evenings and weekends during the irrigation season (1 in 4 weeks). Because of the on-call work, you’ll need to live within 50km of our Culverden office. A work vehicle, mobile phone and laptop are provided.
If you’d rather be outdoors than behind a desk, enjoy practical problem-solving and want to be part of a small team that farmers rely on, this role offers all of that and more.
You’ll Have
Experience in the irrigation sector or in an electrical, mechanical, fitter, plumbing or similar trade (preferred).
Experience in, or knowledge of, the farming industry.
A practical understanding of mechanical principles and confidence with power tools.
Some knowledge of pumps or their electrical components (desirable, as training will be provided).
Good computer skills for record keeping and monitoring systems.
Strong communication skills and a customer-focused approach with shareholders and farm teams.
Experience working in a small team, and confidence working alone in the field.
A reasonable level of fitness and the ability to swim.
A full NZ driver’s licence (4WD experience a bonus) and the ability to work in New Zealand.
About AIC
Amuri Irrigation Company (AIC) delivers water to 125 farmers in the Amuri Basin, North Canterbury from two rivers via a modern network. Our vision is for thriving agribusinesses in a healthy environment. We champion sustainable water use and support our farmers to adopt efficient, future-focused farming systems.
Learn more at www.amuriirrigation.nz and www.aicprojects.nz.
What We Offer
Interesting and varied work with real responsibility and influence
Flexible hours and genuine work/life balance
A collaborative, supportive team environment
Opportunities to upskill, innovate and grow professionally
An espresso machine and a cupboard full of chocolate biscuits
A company that genuinely cares about our people
We’re fans of living in the Basin
Great fishing in the rivers right on your doorstep
Plenty of hunting in the surrounding hills and backcountry
The Kaikōura coast an easy drive away for diving, crayfish and sea fishing
Tramping, mountain biking, jet boating, and skiing at Mt Lyford
Hanmer Springs hot pools for when the day is done
Absolutely no traffic jams (not even a traffic light)
A connected and welcoming community with plenty of clubs and special interest groups
Sound like you?
If this role sounds like the next right step, then we’d love to hear from you. Download the position description from our website at www.amuriirrigation.nz/careers, then apply online.
Questions? Contact Matthew Morgan, Operations Manager on 027 228 9286 for a confidential conversation.