Civil Construction Driver/Operator

Tradestaff; Waikato; On-site; NZD 41,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Project bonus eligibility

Job summary

Tradestaff is seeking an experienced Skid Steer Operator for a major Taupō construction project with an immediate start. You will operate skid steer machinery, support earthworks, site prep and general groundworks as part of a skilled team.

Applicants must reside in Taupō, hold a Class 1 NZ licence with WTR endorsements (or Australian licence), and demonstrate strong safety focus. Competitive hourly rate and weekly pay.

Qualifications

• Proven skid steer experience on construction sites.
• Class 1 NZ licence with WTR endorsements, or Australian licence.
• Experience on construction sites or large-scale projects.
• Strong commitment to health and safety on site.
• Reliable, physically fit and able to work outdoors.

Responsibilities

• Operate skid steer machinery safely and efficiently across the site.
• Carry out earthworks, site preparation and general groundworks.
• Move, load and distribute materials as required.
• Assist with grading, levelling and maintaining work areas.
• Safely operate suitable skid steer attachments.
• Perform daily machinery checks and report faults.
• Follow site health and safety procedures and work with the wider team.

Skills

Skid steer operation

NZ Car licence WTR

Construction site experience

Health and safety

Independence and teamwork

Outdoor work fitness

Reliability

Taupō resident

Tools

Attachment handling

Safe manoeuvring

Precision control

Job description

Skid Steer Operator

Tradestaff is looking for experienced Skid Steer Operators to join a major construction project near Taupō, with an immediate start available.

If you're a confident machine operator who enjoys hands-on work, operating heavy machinery and being part of a large-scale construction project, this is a great opportunity to put your skills to work.

Applicants must currently reside in Taupō.

Location: Taupō

Start date: Immediate

Pay rate: $35.60 per hour, paid weekly

About the Role

You’ll be operating skid steer machinery on a major construction project, supporting earthworks, site preparation and general groundworks alongside an experienced construction team.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate skid steer machinery safely and efficiently across the site.
• Carry out earthworks, site preparation and general groundworks.
• Move, load and distribute materials as required.
• Assist with grading, levelling and maintaining work areas.
• Safely operate suitable skid steer attachments.
• Perform daily machinery checks and report faults.
• Follow site health and safety procedures and work alongside the wider construction team.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience operating skid steer machinery.
• Class 1 NZ driver’s licence with WTR endorsements, or an Australian driver’s licence.
• Experience working on construction sites or large-scale projects.
• Strong commitment to workplace health and safety.
• Reliable, physically fit and comfortable working outdoors.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must currently reside in Taupō.

Preferred Skills

• Attachment Handling: Experience safely changing and operating attachments, including buckets, augers and trenchers.
• Safe Manoeuvring: Confident operating in confined spaces with strong awareness of surroundings and blind spots.
• Precision Control: Experience using joystick controls for accurate grading and levelling and material handling.

What’s on Offer?

• Competitive hourly rate of $35.60.
• Additional project completion bonus available subject to eligibility criteria.
• Ongoing project work currently expected through to May, with potential for extension.
• Opportunity to work on a major construction development.
• Weekly pay and support from the Tradestaff team.

Why Tradestaff? We’re a trusted recruitment partner with over 3 decades of experience in matching skilled tradies with great opportunities. We’re also proud members of the Recruitment & Consulting Services Association (RCSA) of Australia and New Zealand, which means we’re committed to high standards and ethical practices.