Timber Harvest Machine Operator - Ireland, Durban

A leading forestry and arboriculture company in Ireland is seeking an experienced Timber Harvest Machine Operator from South Africa to join their harvesting production team. You will operate purpose-built harvesters or excavator conversions (Ponsse, John Deere, Komatsu, Tigercat) for felling and processing trees in forestry and other tree work, including thinning and clearfell projects. This is a contract role with a strong focus on safety, maintenance, and production performance. The client covers all associated costs – including work permit, visa, and travel – for the successful candidate.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Excellent knowledge of the forestry industry from a harvesting production perspective
• Proven experience in harvesting thinning and clearfell projects
• Hands‑on experience using Ponsse, John Deere, Komatsu, and/or Tigercatharvesting units and their IT systems
• Performance‑driven mindset with strong attention to safety and maintenance
• Appropriate training in operating harvesters/excavator conversions for tree felling and processing
• Valid passport and ability to pass work permit & travel visa checks
• Good level of English (written and oral)
• Full clean driving licence (HGV licence an advantage)

 
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate purpose-built harvester or excavator conversion for felling and processing trees
• Ensure appropriate PPE is worn on site; mark any risk zones clearly on the machine
• Maintain the harvesting head according to the manufacturer's handbook; keep a maintenance record
• Maintain saw chain, including depth regulators, to manufacturer's recommendations
• Ensure chain lubrication is effective; park head in stable position with chainsaw guarded and knives closed
• Agree daily work programme and emergency contact procedure with a designated responsible person; use mobile phone/radio and call‑in system
• Provide emergency services with sufficient location details (grid reference, access type) before an accident occurs
• Plan work so brash and tops from processed trees assist travel over the worksite
• Park harvesting head and boom in correct transport position before driving off; on side slopes extend boom to uphill side
• During repair/fault diagnosis, use restraints or scotches according to manufacturer's instructions
• Remove and inspect cutting equipment at least daily for excessive wear; check for cracked chain parts; renew chain as necessary
• Before maintenance or cleaning, park operational parts safely, switch off engine – never work under suspended unpropped equipment
• Release all hydraulic pressure before maintenance; do not use hand to check for leaks (use paper/cardboard) – seek medical attention immediately if hydraulic fluid penetrates skin

KPIs:

• Safe and efficient harvesting production (thinning & clearfell)
• Proper machine maintenance and recordkeeping
• Adherence to all safety and health regulations, including emergency protocols
• Quality of felling and timber processing
• Performance against production targets

SALARY & BENEFITS

• Industry related in British Pound
• All PPE provided
• Company Pension Scheme (contribution up to 3% of annual salary – once probation passed)
• Driver training & CPD
• 20 days holidays plus bank holidays
• Company Sick Pay (SSP), Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Accommodation provided on site at nominal rates