Crane Operator - Mobile

Smith Crane & Construction; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Overtime after 40 hours

Permanent full-time

Career growth opportunities

Supportive team

NZ Construction leader

Job summary

Smith Crane & Construction – Christchurch, South Island is seeking a skilled Mobile Crane Operator based in Christchurch. You will work with site supervisors, riggers, and the project team to deliver projects on time and within budget, upholding health and safety standards.

We require at least 2 years of crane operation experience, NZ Crane Operation certificate (or equivalent), and a valid NZ Driver’s License.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years crane operation experience in construction/infrastructure.
• NZ Driver’s License with appropriate endorsements (Class 2 or 4) or international license equivalent.
• Strong understanding of safe lifting practices and NZ health & safety regulations.
• Ability to pass a drug & alcohol test and pre-employment medical.
• Physically fit and able to work in varied environments.

Responsibilities

• Operate mobile cranes in accordance with lift plans and site requirements.
• Assist with crane mobilisation, setup and demobilisation.
• Inspect and maintain lifting equipment; report defects promptly.
• Communicate clearly with team members during lifting operations.
• Perform routine crane maintenance and safety checks.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and health & safety regulations.
• Represent Smith Crane & Construction professionally at all times.

Skills

Crane operation

Health & safety

Teamwork

Pre-employment screening

Education

NZ Certificate in Crane Operation (Level 3 or 4)

Unit Standards in crane operation

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Smith Crane & Construction – Christchurch, South Island

We’re on the lookout for a skilled Mobile Crane Operator. If you have a sharp eye, a steady hand, and are currently based in Christchurch, this is your chance to join a respected team. You’ll work closely with site supervisors, riggers, and the wider project team to deliver projects on time and to budget, while upholding our commitment to health and safety.

About Us:

Smith Crane and Construction is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience, offering exceptional service across crane hire, civil construction (including marine civil and pre-cast manufacturing), transportation, and wind energy installation and maintenance. We pride ourselves on our strong team culture, commitment to safety, and continuing our family tradition of excellent customer focus and job execution.

What You’ll Be Doing:

Operate mobile cranes in accordance with lift plans and site requirements

Assist with crane mobilisation, setup and demobilisation

Inspect and maintain lifting equipment; report defects promptly

Communicate clearly with team members during lifting operations

Perform routine crane maintenance and safety checks

Ensure compliance with company policies and health & safety regulations

Represent Smith Crane & Construction professionally at all times

What We’re Looking For:

Minimum 2 years’ crane operation experience in construction/infrastructure

New Zealand Certificate in Crane Operation (Level 3 or 4) – preferred

Unit Standards in crane operation (e.g., US 3795, 3789,) or willing to undertake the courses

Full NZ Driver’s License with appropriate endorsements (Class 2 or 4, WTR) or international licence equivalent

Strong understanding of safe lifting practices and NZ health & safety regulations

Ability to pass a drug & alcohol test and pre-employment medical

Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and teamwork skills

Physically fit and able to work in varied environment

What We Offer:

Overtime after 40 hours worked per week

Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week| Permanent full-time

Join a supportive, down-to-earth team

Opportunity to grow your career and industry knowledge

Join an industry leader in NZ Construction projects

Please note, successful candidates will be subject to pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, a pre-employment medical and police vetting.

You must also have the right to legally live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this position.

Applications will be assessed as they are received.