Compassionate Caregiver - Make A Meaningful Impact

Heritage Lifecare; Southland; On-site; NZD 39,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Heritage Lifecare in Southland seeks an enthusiastic Assistant Drainlayer to support our civil and drainage crew on residential, commercial, and civil projects. This full-time role offers hands-on learning under experienced drainlayers and mentors.

You will assist with laying stormwater, wastewater, and sewer pipes, set up trench safety, and help maintain sites across varying weather. Immediate start with mentorship to learn the trade.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience (qualification preferred but not compulsory).
• Strong physical fitness and willingness to carry out heavy manual handling in all weather conditions.
• Reliable, punctual, and eager to learn the drainlaying trade.

Responsibilities

• Assist qualified drainlayers with laying stormwater, wastewater, and sewer pipes.
• Dig trenches and prepare pipe bedding materials; backfill trenches as directed.
• Move, handle, and prepare drainage pipes, fittings, manholes, and connection materials on site.
• Set up laser levels, trench shoring, and safety equipment under supervision.
• Operate hand and power tools safely (compactors, concrete saws, shovels, level guides).
• Keep the work area clean, organized and hazard-free at all times.
• Assist with traffic management setup and site environmental controls when required.
• Follow health and safety procedures including trench safety and confined space protocols.

Skills

Manual handling

Physical fitness

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Education

Drainlaying qualification (preferred)

Job description

Seeking an Assistant Drainlayer in Southland for full‑time civil projects ($28–$32/hr, 30–60 hrs/wk, immediate start with mentorship to learn the trade).

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated and hardworking Drainlayer's Assistant to join our busy civil and drainage team in Southland. Working alongside certified drainlayers, operators, and pipefitters, you will play a hands‑on role in installing, repairing, and maintaining underground drainage systems across residential, commercial, and civil infrastructure projects. This is an exceptional opportunity to learn the trade from experienced professionals, build your practical skills, and advance your career in civil construction.

What You'll Be Doing

• Assisting qualified drainlayers with laying stormwater, wastewater, and sewer pipes
• Digging trenches, preparing pipe bedding materials, and backfilling trenches manually or assisting machine operators
• Moving, handling, and preparing drainage pipes, fittings, manholes, and connection materials on site
• Setting up laser levels, trench shoring, and safety equipment under supervision
• Operating hand and power tools (compactors, concrete saws, shovels, level guides) safely
• Keeping the work area clean, organized, and free of hazards at all times
• Assisting with traffic management setup and site environmental controls where required
• Following all health and safety procedures, including trench safety and confined space protocols

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience (qualification preferred but not compulsory)
• Strong physical fitness and willingness to carry out heavy manual handling in all weather conditions
• Reliable, punctual, and eager to learn the drainlaying trade
• Ability to follow instructions clearly and work well within a close‑knit team
• Valid Driver’s license, WTR endorsements preferred (or willingness to obtain)
• Competitive hourly rate ($28–$32 per hour depending on experience)
• Minimum of 30 hours guaranteed per week (permanent full‑time), maximum of 60 hours per week
• Weekly pay
• Outstanding opportunity to upskill and gain hands‑on experience toward becoming a qualified Drainlayer
• Supportive team culture with experienced mentors on site