Civil Machinery Operator

GSL; Christchurch, Auckland; Hybrid; NZD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Modern fleet

Diverse project types

Local Canterbury owner

Stable pipeline of work

Supportive, family‑owned culture

Job summary

Grounds and Services Limited (GSL) in Christchurch invites applications for a Civil Machinery Operator. This full-time, permanent position covers diverse civil projects including subdivisions and stormwater works, with GPS-guided earthworks and on‑site safety priorities.

You will operate modern machinery, maintain equipment, complete pre-start checks and collaborate with a skilled team to deliver high‑quality work. A NZ Class 2 licence with WTR is essential, Class 4 is advantageous.

Qualifications

• NZ Class 2 licence with WTR is required.
• Class 4 licence is advantageous.
• 3+ years operating excavators, bulldozers, loaders and dumpers in civil works.
• Strong on-site health and safety understanding.
• Positive, team‑focused work ethic.

Responsibilities

• Operate earthmoving machinery (excavators, bulldozers, loaders, dump trucks, skid steers).
• Work on subdivisions, stormwater basins and environmental projects.
• Carry out bulk earthworks, final trim, truck loading and drain laying with GPS guidance.
• Perform daily pre-start checks and basic machine maintenance.
• Support the team with general site duties as needed.

Skills

NZ Class 2 licence with WTR

Class 4 licence

3+ years operating earthmoving gear

Health & safety on site

Team‑oriented attitude

Job description

About Us

Based in Hornby, GSL has been delivering Civil Construction, Grounds Maintenance and Landscaping services across Canterbury for more than 28 years.

Our Civil Construction team has established a strong reputation for successfully delivering earthworks, drainage, roading, sports fields, stormwater treatment facilities and waterway enhancement projects.

With an in-house mechanical workshop and specialist Open Spaces division, we offer diversity of work and long-term stability that few contractors can match.

We’re proud to be privately owned, agile and committed to doing quality work that benefits our clients and the environment.

The Opportunity

With a busy season ahead, Grounds and Services Limited (GSL) is growing — and we’re looking for experienced Civil Machinery Operators to join our civil construction team in Christchurch.

This is a full-time, permanent role working across a diverse range of civil projects including subdivisions, stormwater infrastructure, waterway enhancements and bulk earthworks.

Reporting to the Construction Manager, you’ll play a key role in an experienced team to deliver high-quality work safely and efficiently.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Operating modern earthmoving machinery including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, dump trucks and skid steers
• Working on subdivisions, stormwater basins and environmental enhancement projects
• Bulk earthworks, final trim, truck loading and drain layingUsing GPS machine control and site plans to meet contract specifications
• Completing daily pre-starts and basic machine maintenance
• Supporting the team with general site duties when required

What You'll Bring

• NZ Class 2 licence with WTR (essential)
• Class 4 licence (advantageous)
• 3+ years’ experience operating diggers, dozers, loaders and dumpers in a civil environment
• Strong understanding of on‑site health & safety
• A positive, team‑focused attitude and strong work ethic

Why Join GSL?

• Modern Fleet, Well Maintained You’ll operate reliable, up‑to‑date machinery backed by our in‑house mechanical workshop.
• Variety of Work From subdivisions to environmental works, no two projects are the same.
• Locally Owned & Invested in Canterbury We’ve been operating for over 28 years and have built a strong reputation for delivering quality civil, drainage and environmental projects.
• Stable Pipeline of Work Ongoing secured projects mean consistent hours and long‑term job security.
• Supportive, Family‑Owned Culture You’re not just a number here. We value our team, promote work/life balance and back our people.
• Career Development Opportunities to grow your skills across different project types and machinery.
• Uniform & PPE Provided We set you up properly from day one.

Please note:

Applicants must hold a NZ Class 2 Licence with WTR and be currently living and working in New Zealand.

Pre‑employment drug & alcohol testing and background checks apply.