Driver Cadet

Start Your Journey. Build Your Career. Drive Your Future.

Looking for more than just a job?

At Southern Milk Transport, we're offering ambitious, motivated people the opportunity to kick-start an exciting career in New Zealand's transport industry. Whether you're just starting out or looking for a hands on career with real growth opportunities, our Driver Cadet Programme provides the training, support, and experience to help you become a skilled Heavy Commercial Vehicle Operator.

You'll earn while you learn, gain nationally recognised qualifications, and work alongside experienced drivers who are committed to helping you succeed.

This is your opportunity to build a long-term career with a business that invests in its people.

About Us

Southern Milk Transport (SMT) is the dedicated transport division of Open Country Dairy, New Zealand's largest independent dairy processor and exporter of premium milk products.

Every day, our modern fleet plays a critical role in collecting and transporting milk from farms across New Zealand to our processing sites. We're proud of our reputation for safety, reliability, innovation, and supporting people to grow successful careers within our business.

What You'll Learn

As a Driver Cadet, you'll receive structured training and real-world experience across all aspects of milk transport operations, including:

• Learning how our milk collection and transport network operates
• Assisting with milk sampling, unloading, and tanker hygiene processes
• Developing practical skills operating heavy commercial vehicles
• Understanding industry-leading health, safety, and compliance standards
• Working alongside experienced operators and mentors
• Completing formal training and industry-recognised qualifications

From day one, you'll be supported by a team that wants to see you succeed.

What We're Looking For

We're searching for someone who brings the right attitude, energy, and commitment to learning.

You will have:

• A Full NZ Driver Licence (Class 1 minimum) or close to attaining one
• A genuine interest in the transport industry
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• A commitment to safety and doing things the right way
• Reliability, motivation, and pride in your work

Why Join Southern Milk Transport?

• Earn While You Learn: Get paid while building valuable skills and qualifications.
• Supported Career Development: Learn from experienced operators who will mentor and guide you throughout your journey.
• Nationally Recognised Qualifications: Gain credentials that set you up for a successful career in transport.
• Genuine Career Progression: Many of our people have progressed into advanced driving, specialist transport, leadership, and operational roles within Open Country Dairy.
• Be Part of a Great Team: Join a supportive environment where people work together, look out for one another, and celebrate success.
• Your Future Starts Here: If you're motivated, eager to learn, and ready to build a career in a thriving industry, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and take the first step toward becoming a Heavy Commercial Vehicle Operator with Southern Milk Transport and Open Country Dairy.

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand.

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