General Hand on Longliner Vessel

As a General Hand on a longlining vessel, you'll play a key role in supporting the crew and operations. Here's what you need to know about the job, income, and living arrangements.

Your duties will vary throughout the trip and may include: Processing fish: Preparing and handling the catch Manual handling: Moving heavy loads and equipment Baiting hooks: Preparing gear for fishing operations Haul room duties: Assisting with operations in the haul room and maintaining the vessel General tasks: Helping with other duties as directed by the senior crew.

Trip schedule: Preferred rotation: Two trips (12-14 weeks at sea), followed by one trip off (6-7 weeks at home) Extended trips: Trips may occasionally exceed 6 weeks, especially at the end of the year during the ice trip. You'll be informed in advance if this happens. Time off: You are not paid during your time off

Travel: You are responsible for covering your travel expenses to and from Timaru at the start and end of your trips. Sanford provides the following on your first voyage (not provided for subsequent trips): Accommodation the night before departure (if needed) A hot meal and airport collection before heading to the vessel

Shift Pattern: 12 hours on, 12 hours off. The vessel operates 24/7, so you'll need to stick to a strict routine to manage fatigue. This can be dependant on area of fishing and shift pattern may change to 8 hours on, 8 hours off on occasion

Living conditions on board: Shared cabins and bathrooms with other crew members All meals provided during the trip Supplied PPE, bedding and laundry facilities Limited Wi-Fi access provided daily Some vessels are equipped with fitness equipment

Income as an Independent Contractor: Your income is structured differently from a regular job. Instead of an hourly wage, you earn a share of the catch. You will NOT be employed by the company. Daily advance payment: You'll receive a daily advance payment of $211.75 per sea day during your trips Gross amount of $1,482.25 per week (based off 7 sea days) These payments are made weekly directly into your bank account Minimum of 20% withholding tax from your earnings After tax, your income will vary depending on the number of sea days and fish caught

At the end of each trip, your total share of the catch will be calculated If your share exceeds the advance payments you've received, you'll receive an end-of-trip payment For new crew members, this end of trip payment may be small initially but will increase as you gain experience and progress in your role You can earn a continuous engagement payment on your third trip, this is a lump sum of money per sea day, paid to you at the end of the trip. This will increase the more trips you complete

The work is physically demanding, requiring strong fitness, stamina, and a willingness to assist wherever needed. Ability to pass a drug and alcohol test along with a full medical check Convictions considered on a case by case basis - no fisheries convictions