Thinking about a career as a Tanker Operator with Fonterra?
Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about the role, our recruitment process, training, and what it’s like to work with us.
We’ve pulled this together to help you decide whether a tanker career at Fonterra is right for you.
What does a Tanker Operator do at Fonterra?
Tanker Operators play a critical role in our supply chain by safely collecting milk from farms and delivering it to our sites. It’s a safety critical role that requires professionalism, strong communication, and a commitment to high standards.
What licence do I need to apply?
Most Tanker Operator roles require a Class 5 licence.
In some regions, we also recruit Class 4 drivers through our Tētēkura development programme, which supports drivers to progress to Class 5 while gaining tanker experience.
In some regions, we also recruit Class 4 drivers through our Tētēkura development programme, which supports drivers to progress to Class 5 while gaining tanker experience.
Do I need previous tanker experience?
Previous tanker experience is helpful but not essential. We assess each application on overall capability, safety mindset, driving experience, and performance through our recruitment assessments.
What does the recruitment process involve?
Depending on the role and location, the process may include:
We’ll guide you through each step if you progress
- Application review
- Phone or video screening
- An assessment centre or interview
- A driving assessment
- Pre employment checks
We’ll guide you through each step if you progress
What pre employment checks are required?
All Tanker Operator roles require standard Fonterra pre employment checks. These may include:
These are essential due to the safety critical nature of the role.
- Medical and drug & alcohol testing
- Licence and driving history checks
- Background and reference checks
These are essential due to the safety critical nature of the role.
What hours will I work?
Tanker roles operate on a rostered shift basis, including early starts, nights, weekends, and public holidays.
Our standard roster is 3 day shifts, 3 night shifts, 3 rostered of (12 hour shifts).
Exact rosters vary by site and season and will be discussed during the process.
Our standard roster is 3 day shifts, 3 night shifts, 3 rostered of (12 hour shifts).
Exact rosters vary by site and season and will be discussed during the process.
Are roles permanent or fixed term?
This depends on the site and business need:
We’ll be clear about the contract type before any offer is made.
- Some roles are permanent
- Others may start as fixed term, particularly development or seasonal roles
We’ll be clear about the contract type before any offer is made.
How long does it take to hear back after I apply?
You’ll receive an automatic confirmation email once you apply.
Our recruitment team will then be in touch by phone or email. Timelines can vary depending on application volumes, but we work to progress candidates as quickly as possible.
Our recruitment team will then be in touch by phone or email. Timelines can vary depending on application volumes, but we work to progress candidates as quickly as possible.
Will I get feedback if I’m unsuccessful?
All candidates will be notified of the outcome of their application.
Due to high application volumes, we’re not always able to provide individual feedback at early stages, but interview candidates will receive feedback.
Due to high application volumes, we’re not always able to provide individual feedback at early stages, but interview candidates will receive feedback.
Can I apply for more than one location?
Yes. You’re welcome to apply for multiple tanker roles or talent pools across different locations if you’re open to working in those areas
What support and training does Fonterra provide?
Fonterra provides:
Our focus is on keeping people safe and setting them up for long term success.
- Comprehensive induction and site training
- Ongoing safety and capability development
- Support from experienced depot and transport leaders
Our focus is on keeping people safe and setting them up for long term success.
Do you need adjustments to you’re the interview?
At Fonterra, we want every candidate to feel welcome, supported, and able to show their best.
If you need any help during the recruitment process, we offer a range of reasonable adjustments—small changes that can make a big difference.
Find out how we can support you.
Find out how we can support you.