Civil Machinery & NDD Operator

WATTERS ELECTRICAL PTY LTD; Greater Shepparton; On-site; AUD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Watters Electrical Pty Ltd, based in Shepparton, is seeking experienced Excavator and NDD Operators for civil and electrical construction across Regional Victoria. You will support underground power and utility projects, work with internal electrical crews, and undertake subcontract works for major providers like Powercor.

The role requires precise excavation, live service awareness, and working around critical infrastructure with hydro excavation and excavator equipment.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of experience operating heavy machinery in a construction setting.
• Proficiency with horizontal boring, Hydrovac, and excavators.
• Current construction white card (mandatory).
• Must have a valid driver’s license (mandatory).
• Current MR/HR truck license (preferred).
• Service locating experience (highly regarded).
• Ability to interpret construction plans and specifications (desirable).
• Physical fitness for manual labour in all weather conditions.
• Strong work ethic, positive attitude and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators, hydro excavation units, and vacuum trucks safely and efficiently.
• Excavate and expose underground electrical, telecommunications, gas, water, and sewer assets.
• Complete trenching, backfilling, service crossings, and final trim work.
• Support the installation of conduits, pits, poles, kiosks, transformers, and associated electrical infrastructure.
• Read and interpret underground service plans, construction drawings, and project documentation.
• Work closely with electrical crews, supervisors, and subcontractors to deliver project outcomes.
• Conduct daily pre-start inspections and basic maintenance of plant and equipment.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and compliant worksite.
• Adhere to all company, client, and regulatory safety requirements.

Skills

Heavy machinery experience

Hydrovac

Excavator operation

Horizontal boring

Construction white card

Driver's license

MR/HR Truck license

Service locating

Reading plans & specs

Job description

Civil and NDD Operators - Take Your Career to the Next Level with Watters Electrical!

Looking for your next big opportunity? Join the Watters Electrical team in Shepparton and make your mark in the dynamic electrical and civil industry. With the continuation of our contract with Powercor as the primary civil contractor, we're looking to grow our team of talented civil operators.

About Watters Electrical: With over 65 years of proven excellence, Watters Electrical is the leading electrical contracting company in Regional Victoria and Southern New South Wales. With branches in Shepparton, Wangaratta, and Albury, we proudly employ over 250 skilled professionals. As Powercor’s preferred contractor, our reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation is unmatched.

The Role: We are seeking experienced and motivated Excavator and Non-Destructive Digging (NDD) Operators to join the Civil and Electrical Construction team delivering underground power, utility, and infrastructure projects throughout Regional Victoria.

Working across a diverse range of projects, you will be involved in the construction and maintenance of underground power networks, supporting our internal electrical crews, and undertaking subcontract works for major network providers including Powercor.

This role is ideally suited to operators who take pride in precision excavation, have a strong safety focus, and understand the importance of working around live services and critical infrastructure. Operators will utilise both excavators and hydro excavation equipment to safely expose services, support construction activities, and ensure works are completed to a high standard.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate excavators, hydro excavation units, and vacuum trucks safely and efficiently
• Excavate and expose underground electrical, telecommunications, gas, water, and sewer assets
• Complete trenching, backfilling, service crossings, and final trim work
• Support the installation of conduits, pits, poles, kiosks, transformers, and associated electrical infrastructure
• Read and interpret underground service plans, construction drawings, and project documentation
• Work closely with electrical crews, supervisors, and subcontractors to deliver project outcomes
• Conduct daily pre-start inspections and basic maintenance of plant and equipment
• Maintain a safe, clean, and compliant worksite
• Adhere to all company, client, and regulatory safety requirements

What We're Looking For:

• At least 1 year of experience operating heavy machinery in a construction setting (preferred)
• Proficiency with horizontal boring, Hydrovac, and excavators (highly desirable)
• Current construction white card (mandatory)
• Must have a valid driver's license (mandatory)
• Current MR/HR truck license (preferred)
• Service locating experience (highly regarded)
• Ability to interpret construction plans and specifications (desirable)
• Physical fitness and the ability to perform manual labour in all weather conditions
• A strong work ethic, positive attitude, and the ability to thrive in a team environment
• A commitment to workplace safety and quality standards

Why Choose Us?

• Competitive Pay: Aligned with our Watters Electrical Pty. Ltd. 2024–2028 Enterprise Bargaining Agreement
• Income Protection: Through the PROTECT employee income protection program
• Skill Development: Paid training and opportunities to grow your career
• Varied Projects: Get hands-on experience across a diverse range of exciting projects
• Supportive Environment: Join a workplace where teamwork, inclusion, and camaraderie are celebrated
• Employee Benefits & Discounts: Company Hub for recognition, rewards and employee discounts
• Social Connections: Engage with our active Social Club enjoying regular activities including BBQs and social events
• Well-Being Support: Access our Employee Assistance Program and a host of other employee benefits