Excavator Operator | Nelson Region

We are seeking an experienced Excavator Operator to join our team and work across a variety of project sites throughout the Nelson region. If you are safety-focused, reliable, and confident operating a range of excavators, we'd like to hear from you.

As an Excavator Operator, you will be responsible for operating excavators safely and efficiently while supporting civil construction and earthworks projects. You will work closely with supervisors and site teams to deliver high-quality outcomes across multiple sites.

What's on Offer?

• Full-time employment with a minimum of 40 hours per week.
• Monday to Saturday work available..
• Competitive hourly rates based on experience.
• A supportive team environment with a strong safety-first culture.

Pre-Employment Requirements

Safety is our highest priority. Successful applicants must be able to pass:

• Drug and alcohol screening.
• Ministry of Justice criminal history check.

We operate a strict zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy. Employees may also be required to participate in random workplace testing on client project sites.

Please Note

• Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.
• Due to the immediate start requirement, overseas applicants will not be considered.
• Employment is subject to successfully completing all required pre-employment checks.

Key Responsibilities

• Communicate effectively with supervisors to understand excavation requirements.
• Read and interpret plans, drawings, and site instructions.
• Identify and locate underground services, including pipes and cables.
• Select, fit, and operate a range of excavator attachments.
• Operate excavators from 1.7T to 36T.
• Complete bulk earthworks and excavation works.
• Undertake final trim work to level (GPS machine control experience advantageous).
• Excavate trenches and cut batter slopes.
• Spread basecourse materials.
• Load excavated material onto trucks.
• Carry out daily pre-start inspections and basic machine maintenance.
• Assist with general site labouring and other duties as required.

Skills & Experience

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• At least 2 years' experience operating excavators and heavy machinery (1.7T to 36T).
• Experience performing routine maintenance and daily safety checks.
• Confidence operating machinery independently in confined spaces and on uneven terrain.
• Strong trimming and excavation skills with the ability to work accurately to level.
• A strong commitment to health and safety, with the ability to identify and manage hazards.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team.
• A current Wheels, Tracks and Rollers (WTR) endorsement (training may be available for the right candidate).
• A reliable, punctual, and hardworking attitude.