Mechanical Apprenticeship

Red Stag Timber Limited has made significant investment in a brand new Sawmill, and other leading edge timber processing technology upgrades, throughout the Waipa Mill site. We employ 400+ employees and contractors and the site is located just 10mins south of the Rotorua CBD.

Our annual staff surveys confirm a positive and safety conscious workplace culture, and a strong commitment to invest in our people through training programmes, skill development and succession planning.

We are seeking applications for our 2026 Mechanical Apprenticeship

This career path involves specialised on the job learning combined with study, to become a trade qualified Mechanical Fitter. Skilled and trade qualified technicians have the earning potential of $80,000+/annum, and are highly sought after in many industries both in New Zealand and overseas.

Successful candidates will initially be employed on a temporary 3-6 month fixed term, as a fulltime paid Trades Assistant to ensure mutual apprenticeship pathway fit. Upon successful completion and demonstrated work performance, an apprenticeship pathway will be confirmed with each candidate.

Red Stag Timber will, upon appointment, provide support and continue paid fulltime employment as an Apprentice, with the view to achieve an L4 National Certificate in Fitting and Turning or Fabrication. Practical learning on site will involve hands on work, mentored by our experienced Trades people. Apprenticeships generally take up to 4 years to complete.

Ideally, the preferred applicants will have

A minimum L2 NCEA pass in Mathematics & English and have ideally have also studied a Technology/IT related subject.

Excellent communication skills, personal presentation and willingness to follow instructions.

Confident computer and IT skills.

A reliable ‘work-first’ attitude, along with a strong commitment to workplace safety.

A high level of physical fitness and strength due to the nature of the work tasks.

A strong commitment to personal study via online platforms and ability to travel for block courses as and when these arise.

A pre-employment medical health check, including drug screening applies. Applicants will also be required to complete mathematical and critical reasoning testing as part of the recruitment process.

A brief CV, cover letter, copies of most current learning records, school attendance verification and complete the Red Stag Timber online registration form.