Operator - Cutting

Operator - Cutting Department: Production Employment Type: Full Time Location: Waikato (6) Description Real Steel is opening a brand-new, purpose-built factory in Hautapu. The site has been designed from day one for high-speed processing, smart material flow, modern machinery, safe workspaces, and future automation. This is a chance to join us at Hautapu from the very start and help shape how the factory runs. As we are currently in the process of establishing our new factory, we will be recruiting for Operator roles over the next few months, with start dates expected between June and August this year. About Real Steel Real Steel is a family-owned New Zealand business with a long history in steel processing and distribution. We supply steel solutions nationwide and operate sites in Upper Hutt, Ashburton, and now Hautapu. We’re known for consistent standards, strong customer relationships, and looking after our people. Many of our team build long-term careers here. Once people join Real Steel, they tend to stay. Find out more at www.realsteel.co.nz About the Role We’re looking for both Operators and Senior Operators to join our Laser and Plasma Cutting teams at Hautapu. These roles are central to turning raw steel into accurate, high-quality components used across construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing projects. You’ll be working with modern, cutting edge machinery including a Kinetic K5000 plasma/drilling machine and a brand new 20kW 12m fibre laser. If you already have experience on Laser, Plasma, or Press Brake machines - great. If you don’t, but you’re reliable, keen to learn, and comfortable around machinery - we still want to hear from you. What you’ll do Operate a range of machinery – plasma, drilling/machining and high-powered lasers. Produce parts to quality and safety standards. Complete daily safety and basic maintenance checks. Check your own work and follow quality processes. Handle materials safely using overhead cranes and forklifts. Keep your work area tidy and organised. Pitch in across the team when needed. This role is 42.5 hours per week Monday to Friday 6:00am - 3:00pm. What you’ll bring Experience on Laser, Plasma, or Press Brake machines or similar machinery. A solid work ethic and reliable attitude. Comfort working in a production environment. Demonstrate a safe working mindset, especially around overhead cranes and forklifts. Pride in doing a job properly. Good communication and a team-first mindset. Interest in building a long-term career. People from manufacturing, construction, trades, warehousing, or similar backgrounds tend to do well in this role. Why join Real Steel? Be part of the founding team at a brand-new factory. Modern machinery and a purpose-built production environment. A company that invests in its people and long-term careers. Real opportunities to grow as the site expands. A supportive team culture within a family-owned New Zealand business. Assessment Centre To be considered, you must be able to attend the assessment centre: Date: Tuesday, 28th April 2026 Time: 4:00pm Location: Hautapu You’ll meet the team, see the site, and complete practical assessments. Successful candidates would be ready to start from 8th June. Apply Ready to join the Hautapu team? Apply now with your CV and a cover letter. Take the first step toward building a future with Real Steel at Hautapu. #J-18808-Ljbffr