Drainlayer / Machine Operator

JobSpace; Invercargill City; On-site; NZD 34,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Marram health care

Discounted holiday homes

Competitive hourly rates

Career progression

Referral bonus $500

Safety gear provided

Discounts (insurance, retail, gym)

Job summary

Downer in Invercargill is seeking an experienced Drainlayer / Machine Operator to join our Construction team. You will be involved in drainage installation, earthworks, and machine operation across civil and infrastructure projects in the region.

This role suits someone who enjoys varied work, thrives in a hardworking crew, and prioritises safety in every task.

Qualifications

• Experience in drainage installation and civil works.
• WTR endorsed and machine operating experience.
• Ability to read plans and levels.
• Knowledge of trench safety and underground services.
• Class 2 licence or higher advantageous.
• Strong commitment to safe work practices.

Responsibilities

• Carry out drainage installation and civil works on site.
• Operate machines and support earthworks as required.
• Work from plans and levels to ensure accuracy.
• Maintain trench safety and protect underground services.
• Adhere to safety guidelines and project procedures.

Skills

Drainage installation

Civil works

WTR endorsements

Machine operation

Plans & levels

Trench safety

Underground services

Class 2 licence

Safety practices

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.

Downer is seeking an experienced Drainlayer / Machine Operator to join our Construction team in Invercargill. Working across civil and infrastructure projects, you'll be involved in drainage installation, earthworks, and machine operation while helping deliver essential projects across the region.

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys varied work, being part of a hardworking crew, and operating in a safety-first environment.

Skills and Experience

• Experience in drainage installation and civil works


• WTR endorsements and machine operating experience


• Ability to work from plans and levels


• Knowledge of trench safety and underground services


• Class 2 licence or higher advantageous


• Strong understanding of safe work practices

Why You Will Enjoy Working Here

At Downer, we value our people and support career growth and development. You'll enjoy:

• Stable, long-term work with one of New Zealand's largest infrastructure businesses


• Free access to Marram health care benefits and discounted holiday homes


• Competitive hourly rates aligned with your experience


• Opportunities for career progression and leadership development


• Discounts for insurance, retail stores, gym memberships and more!


• $500 (Gross) bonus for current employees who refer a friend to Downer


• Safety equipment and clothing provided as part of the role

We are committed to a safe working environment for everyone - all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre-employment drug test, medical and a Ministry of Justice check prior to starting employment. If you need support with this requirement, please talk to our team.

Downer Group is an employer that acknowledges and embraces the importance of our people's diverse experiences, talents, and cultures. As an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from everyone.