3 Waters Civil Excavator Operator – Stable Role & Training

Downer; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Ongoing training and development

Job summary

Downer is seeking an experienced Civil Excavator Operator to join our Queenstown-based team delivering essential water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure projects. This hands-on role requires operating excavators (1.5T–20T, typically 5–10T), supporting pipe installation and renewal tasks while maintaining safety around live services.

You will also assist on-ground crew when the machine isn’t needed, with a strong emphasis on team collaboration, fitness, and a proactive safety mindset.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating excavators within a civil construction environment.
• Previous experience working on water, wastewater, or stormwater projects.
• Strong understanding of trench safety and underground services.
• Experience working safely around live utilities and high-risk environments.
• A commitment to quality workmanship and safe work practices.
• WTR endorsements.
• A Class 1 licence as a minimum.

Responsibilities

• This role is hands-on and operates machinery to support safe and efficient excavation activities.
• Assist pipe installation, maintenance, repairs, and renewals across the network.
• Work alongside a civil crew and support ground tasks when machine is not needed.
• Prioritize safety and follow site procedures for working around live services.

Skills

Excavator operation

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Effective communication

Risk management

Fitness

Education

Class 1 licence

Class 4 licence

Job description

Downer is seeking an experienced Civil Excavator Operator to join our Queenstown-based team delivering essential water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure projects. This hands-on role requires operating excavators (1.5T–20T, typically 5–10T), supporting pipe installation and renewal tasks while maintaining safety around live services.

You will also assist on-ground crew when the machine isn’t needed, with a strong emphasis on team collaboration, fitness, and a proactive safety mindset.