Drainage Foreman

RobLawMax Recruitment; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 44,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Long-term drainage projects

Job summary

RobLawMax Recruitment is seeking a hands-on Drainage Foreman to lead crews on key Canterbury civil infrastructure projects in Christchurch. You’ll drive productivity, safety, and quality on-site, collaborating closely with project managers and supervisors to keep work flowing smoothly.

Ideal candidates have proven deep drainage and civil pipework experience, a hands-on leadership style, and the ability to read plans and set levels.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in deep drainage and civil pipework.
• Hands-on leadership style; work alongside the team.
• Ability to read plans and set levels.
• Certified or registered Drainlayer preferred, but not essential.
• Full Class 1 licence required (Class 2 and WTR an advantage).

Responsibilities

• Oversee deep drainage installations (sewer, stormwater, water mains).
• Manage and lead a small on-site team.
• Interpret plans, set out levels, and problem-solve on the go.
• Experience with water reticulation services preferred.
• Operate excavators in deep drainage and various machines.
• Uphold and enforce health and safety standards.
• Communicate clearly with supervisors and subcontractors.

Skills

Hands-on leadership

Deep drainage

Civil pipework

Read plans

Drainlayer cert

Class 1 Licence

Tools

Excavators

Job description

Were looking for a hands-on Drainage Foreman with a deep drainage background to take charge of crews working on some of Canterburys most important civil infrastructure projects.

This is a boots-on-the-ground leadership role with a well-established civil contractor delivering 3-waters and underground infrastructure projects across Christchurch and surrounding areas.

Youll be stepping into a team that values doing things properly, safely, and efficiently.

Whats in it for you:

• Up to $45 per hour (negotiable based on experience)
• Company vehicle
• Long-term pipeline of deep drainage and civil work
• Supportive site culture with well-maintained gear and solid systems
• Opportunity to lead, grow and be recognised for your contribution

About the Role:

Youll be on the ground with your crew, actively involved in day-to-day drainage work while leading site operations. Youll take responsibility for productivity, safety, and quality, and will work closely with project managers and supervisors to keep things running smoothly.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and participate in deep drainage installations (sewer, stormwater, water mains)
• Manage and lead a small on-site team
• Interpret plans, set out levels, and problem-solve on the go
• Experience with water reticulation services (preferred)
• Confident in operating excavators in deep drainage and various machines
• Uphold and enforce health and safety standards
• Communicate clearly with supervisors and subcontractors

What Were Looking For:

• Proven experience in deep drainage and civil pipework
• Hands-on leadership style not just directing, but working alongside your team
• Ability to read plans and work with levels
• Certified or registered Drainlayer preferred, but not essential
• Full Class 1 licence required (Class 2 and WTR an advantage)
• Commitment to quality work, safe practices, and team performance