Skipper & First Mate – San Tangaroa (Scampi vessel)

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, achieved through our values of care, passion, integrity, and achieving together in all that we do.

About the role

We are seeking both a Skipper and Mate to join the crew of the San Tangaroa, one of Sanford's dedicated deepwater scampi vessels. Operating out of Timaru, the San Tangaroa undertakes voyages of up to six weeks, targeting scampi across the Chatham Rise, Auckland Islands, and Chatham Islands. All catch is landed, processed, frozen, and packed at sea, before being delivered to Sanford's Bluff and Timaru sites.

These leadership roles present a unique opportunity to play a pivotal part in one of Sanford's most respected scampi operations. Whether you are an experienced Skipper ready for a new challenge, or a confident Mate looking to grow your career at sea, this is your chance to step into a highly valued role on a well-supported vessel.

Both positions are Independent Contractor (self-employed) roles on a 4-6 weeks on / 4-6 weeks off rotation, with Sanford covering return travel from your hometown to Timaru or Invercargill.

Key responsibilities

Skipper

• Fish within the designated quota area according to the voyage catch plan, adapting plans as needed with company approval.
• Ensure all operations comply with company standards, MPI, MOSS, MNZ legislation, and New Zealand law.
• Supervise and train crew, fostering safe, efficient operations.
• Coordinate with the Vessel Manager for fuel, provisions, and fishing gear, and oversee maintenance and repairs.
• Operate the vessel continuously (weather permitting) to maximise catch quality and quantity while safeguarding the wellbeing of the crew and vessel.
• Maintain daily communication with the shore team and ensure accurate logs and records are kept.

Mate

• Support the Skipper in daily vessel operations, navigation, weather monitoring, record keeping, and bridge watchkeeping.
• Lead by example to ensure the crew are working safely, efficiently, and respectfully.
• Oversee high-standard scampi packing and processing at sea.
• Monitor and enforce compliance with safety procedures and legislation.
• Foster a collaborative, communicative, and productive onboard culture.

About you

You will be passionate about fishing and committed to running a safe, efficient, and productive vessel. You'll bring strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills, with the ability to adapt positively in a fast-paced 24-hour operation. Above all, you'll be committed to health, safety, and wellbeing, and take pride in delivering the highest quality seafood to the world.

What we're looking for

Skipper:

• Proven leadership and operational experience in scampi fisheries or similar deepwater operations.
• Skipper Fishing Vessel (SFV) certificate or equivalent.
• Current Maritime Medical (or ability to obtain).
• Strong knowledge of NZ legislation (MOSS, HSWA, QMS, Fisheries Act/regulations, MPI food safety).

Mate:

• Mate Fishing Vessel (MFV) certificate or equivalent.
• Current Maritime Medical (or ability to obtain).
• Proven experience in scampi or deepwater fisheries.
• Strong understanding of NZ maritime legislation (MOSS, HSWA, Fisheries Act, MPI food safety).

Why Sanford?

The San Tangaroa is part of a well-supported, tightly managed fleet with reliable systems and strong communication between vessel and shore. You'll be backed by experienced Vessel Managers and work alongside a skilled crew, giving you the chance to focus on what you do best: leading successful trips and producing high-quality seafood. 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.