Asphalt Plant Operator

Higgins; Bay of Plenty; On-site; NZD 33,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

KiwiSaver employer contribution 4%

40 hours per week guaranteed

Opportunity to upskill and gain more‑l

Staff discounts

Job summary

Higgins is seeking an Asphalt Plant Operator to join the Tauranga team. You’ll work in a small crew, handling asphalt plant operation, loader duties and general plant tasks across day and night rosters.

The role is hands-on and multi-skilled, demanding safe operation around high-temperature processes. A current Class 1 licence with WTR endorsements and a practical, team-focused approach are essential.

Qualifications

• Previous asphalt plant operating experience.
• Proven loader operating experience.
• Current Class 1 Driver Licence with WTR endorsements.
• Flexibility to work a roster across days and nights.
• Experience with safety around mobile plant and high-temperature processes.

Responsibilities

• Operate the asphalt plant and equipment to meet daily production requirements.
• Operate a loader to move materials around the plant.
• Complete pre-starts, inspections and operational checks.
• Monitor production and ensure product meets specifications.
• Assist with start-up, shut-down, clean-down and maintenance.
• Support quality testing activities as needed.

Skills

Asphalt plant operation

Loader operation

Class 1 Licence

WTR endorsements

Night/day roster flexibility

Safety awareness

Job description

Description

We are looking for an Asphalt Plant Operator to join our team in Tauranga. You’ll join a small, close-knit crew producing asphalt for our internal and external customers. This is a hands‑on, multi‑skilled role covering asphalt plant operation, loader work and general plant duties, so we’re looking for someone comfortable working across different parts of the operation.

What You’ll Do

• Operate the asphalt plant and associated equipment to meet daily production requirements
• Operate a loader to move and manage materials around the plant
• Complete plant and machinery pre‑starts, inspections and operational checks
• Monitor asphalt production and ensure product meets required specifications
• Assist with plant start‑up, shut‑down, clean‑down and general plant maintenance
• Work across the wider operation as needed, including supporting quality and testing activities

About You

We’re looking for someone who can turn their hand to different tasks and is comfortable working across both plant and mobile machinery. Ideally, you will have:

• Previous asphalt plant operating experience
• Proven experience operating a loader
• A current Class 1 Driver Licence and relevant WTR endorsements
• Flexibility to work a roster across days and nights
• Experience working safely around mobile plant, high‑temperature processes and hazardous substances
• A practical approach, good communication skills and the ability to work well within a crew
• Experience with asphalt lab work, sampling or quality testing would be a bonus

Why Join Us

• Competitive hourly rate
• Permanent role with guaranteed 40 hours per week
• KiwiSaver employer contribution matched up to 4%
• Opportunity to upskill and gain further licenses
• Retail discounts for you and your family to enjoy
• Z fuel discounts including a monthly free pie and coffee

Higgins is a leading construction and infrastructure company, proudly building and maintaining roads, bridges, and civil projects that connect communities across New Zealand. With a strong focus on safety, quality, and sustainability, we deliver projects that make a real difference. At Higgins, you’ll join a team that values collaboration, innovation, and career growth – because we believe our people are the foundation of our success.

Higgins is committed to a drug‑free workplace. The successful applicant will be required to pass pre‑employment drug and alcohol testing along with a health check – you’ll need to be fit for work!

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