Drainage Crew Workers

Franklin Smith Group; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Jora New Zealand is recruiting drainage crews at all levels for long-term civil projects across New Zealand. Roles range from labourers to certified drainlayers and site leaders, with $28–$42/hr depending on experience and role.

Applicants must have drainage or civil labouring experience, Class 1 licence (Class 2 or WTR bonus), and drainage certification for top-tier roles. NZ work rights and pre-employment tests are required.

Qualifications

• Proven drainage or civil labouring experience (minimum 12 months)
• Reading/drainage plans and rough layouts
• Ability to work as part of a reliable crew

Responsibilities

• Assisting or leading trenching and pipe laying
• Operating with excavators and spotting for machines
• Reading and working from drainage plans
• Installing stormwater, sewer, and water mains
• Supporting foremen or taking charge of daily operations

Skills

Team player

Willing to learn

Strong work ethic

Education

Class 1 licence

Drainage certification

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

DRAINAGE CREW WANTED – ALL LEVELS

$28–$42/hr depending on experience and role | Full-time | Long-term projects

We’re building reliable drainage crews across key civil sites and looking for strong candidates at every level — from labourers through to certified drainlayers and site leaders. If you’ve got experience in civil drainage or want to grow within a solid team, we want to hear from you.

We’re Hiring For:

• General Labourers (minimum 6–12 months civil experience)
• Drainlayer Assistants (minimum 12 months drainage experience)
• Experienced Drainlayers
• 2IC / Leading Hands
• Certified/Licensed Drainlayers
• Foremen with strong site management skills

What You'll Be Doing:

• Assisting or leading trenching and pipe laying
• Working with excavators and spotting for machines
• Reading and working from drainage plans
• Installing stormwater, sewer, and water mains
• Supporting foremen or taking charge of daily operations (depending on role)

What You’ll Need:

• Proven drainage or civil labouring experience (minimum 12 months)
• Class 1 licence (Class 2 or WTR is a bonus)
• Strong work ethic and positive attitude
• Drainage certification required for top-tier roles
• Ability to work as part of a reliable crew

Why Join:

• Ongoing, long-term work across strong projects
• Clear pathway to grow from labourer to leader
• Great team culture and support on site
• Work with reputable contractors in the civil space

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand. Successful candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment medical, drug, and alcohol test.