Assembly Operator

Job description

Who We Are

Integrity. Quality. Commitment and Innovation.
These are our values and not only what we stand by but what we stand for. We believe in empowering people. We create and deliver solutions. We give back to community. We think differently and we do it better. Our innovative spirit has driven us to continually evolve and deliver solutions to our dealers and our community and made us a business that our people are proud of and proud to work for.

Waratah NZ Limited (a John Deere Company) has proudly served the global forestry industry for more than 50+ years, pioneering mechanized harvesting with first-class products of distinct quality, durability, and reliability paired with unparalleled customer support.

With John Deere, we run so life can leap forward. This powerful purpose is our promise to humankind that we will dream, design, and deliver breakthrough products that sustain our world for generations to come. The world is counting on us to feed billions of people and build vital infrastructures in villages, towns and megacities. And we live up to the legacy our founder forged in a one-room blacksmith's shop nearly two centuries ago by creating a culture that brings out the best in all of us. A culture where great ideas thrive because every voice is heard.

Title: Assembly Operator
Primary Location: - Tokoroa
Job Grade: Wage
Hiring Manager: Shaun Strotten

The Opportunity

Assemble tree harvesting attachments by installing purchased and manufactured components into pre-assemblies or onto fabricated and cast structures, ensuring safe operations, high-quality builds, and consistent production flow in line with Waratah Factory standards.

What You Will Be Responsible For

Safety & Compliance

• Perform all assembly activities in accordance with safety standards

• Safely handle parts using lifting equipment and approved rigging methods

• Report hazards, incidents and near misses

• Maintain clean and compliant work areas (5S)

• Follow PPE and safe work requirements

Assembly Execution

• Following digital work instructions, assemble components in correct sequence and orientation, applying correct torque and fastening methods

• Adjust and align components for correct fit and function

• Maintain workflow aligned to takt time and production demands

Quality Assurance

• Perform in-process checks for fit and alignment

• Inspect assemblies for defects or missing parts, ensuring components meet quality standards

• Escalate non-conforming product

• Verify torque and functional requirements

• Follow quality procedures and controls

Equipment & Tool Management

• Conduct daily preventative maintenance checks

• Perform routine tool checks

• Perform basic troubleshooting

• Report faulty equipment & maintain 5S clean workstation standards

Production Delivery

• Meet daily production targets

• Maintain assembly line flow

• Escalate bottlenecks or shortages

• Support changeovers and training

Team Collaboration

• Engage with production, engineering and quality teams, with thorough communication

• Provide feedback on improvements and utilize the CI process

What You Will Need To Be Successful In The Role

You thrive on teamwork and attention to detail while committed to safety and precision

You are a great communicator and take pride in building high quality equipment

You take ownership with a strong understanding of following process and quality control

Qualifications Required

Relevant & proven trade or mechanical experience

Applications for this position will close at COB 19th June 2026.

Note: Appropriate work authorisations are required in this country prior to application.

The information contained herein is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and qualifications required of individuals performing the job. The qualifications detailed in this job description are not considered the minimum requirements necessary to perform the job, but rather as guidelines.

Waratah believes in the power of diversity in the workforce and we and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Waratah. Built to Produce. Built to Last. Built to Work.