About us

At Sanford, we are proud of our 100+ years of seafood history, passionate about our industry and excited about our future. Our vision is Leadership in New Zealand Seafood, achieving this through a value led approach of care, passion, integrity and achieving together in all that we do.

About the role

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 the Skipper, you will have the opportunity to get into the driver's seat of one of Sanford's Scampi vessels. The vessel is located in Timaru and has a strong value led culture, where people are the operations most important asset. These positions are rare and infrequent in our industry, so if you are already a Skipper looking for a change in vessel, or becoming a Skipper is the next step in your career development, this might be the opportunity for you. This is an Independent Contractor role on a 6 weeks on - 6 weeks off rotation.

Sanford covers the return travel expense from your hometown to Timaru.

Responsibilities:

• Fish within the designated quota area according to the voyage catch plan, adapting plans as needed with company approval.
• Follow all company regulations, New Zealand laws, and international conventions ensuring all operations comply with company standards and insurance requirements.
• Appoint and supervise crew members in accordance with the minimum crewing levels and the company standards.
• Ensure all crew members are trained for efficient and safe operations.
• Coordinate with the Vessel Manager for fuel, provisions, and fishing gear from approved suppliers. Maintain and repair the vessel at sea as needed and oversee any necessary repairs during port visits.
• Operate the vessel continuously, weather permitting, to maximise both the quality and quantity of the catch and ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of the crew and vessel.
• Maintain daily communication with the shore-based team, providing updates on required information. Keep detailed logs and records, ensuring compliance with Company and legal requirements.

About you:

You will be responsible for ensuring the vessel's safe, efficient, and lawful operation while maximising the quality and quantity of the catch. Committed to health and safety, prioritising the well-being of all crew. You will excel at working with people from diverse backgrounds, have a strong work ethic able to use initiative. Your effective communication skills will enable you to engage at all levels of the operation. As a strong leader, you can manage a complex 24-hour operation and adapt quickly and positively to change, guiding your team through transitions effectively.

What we're looking for:

• Have proven experience and knowledge in Scampi Fisheries
• Hold an SFV or equivalent
• Current Maritime Medical
• Have an understanding and compliance to all relevant NZ Legislation including MOSS, HSWA, QMS, Fisheries Act/regulation and MPI food safety

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.