Earth moving Machine Operator

JobSpace; Bay of Plenty; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Jora New Zealand is seeking an experienced Earth Moving Machine Operator to lead operational roles on construction and earthworks projects. The role requires advanced technical skill, sound judgement, and the ability to work autonomously on demanding sites.

You will operate excavators, bulldozers, graders and loaders with high precision, interpret plans and data, and ensure safety and quality on complex sites. This position offers growth opportunities within a collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of relevant earthmoving experience or a qualification in civil construction/earthworks.
• WTR certificate covering multiple machine types is beneficial.
• Strong knowledge of grading, excavation and site preparation.

Responsibilities

• Operate a wide range of earth moving machinery with high precision.
• Independently interpret site plans, survey data, and grade requirements.
• Perform advanced grading, cut-and-fill, and levelling work to tight tolerances.
• Identify and troubleshoot machinery faults and coordinate repairs.
• Provide guidance and oversight to less experienced operators or crew.
• Liaise with site supervisors and engineers on technical and scheduling matters.
• Ensure compliance with site safety plans and hazard procedures.
• Manage machinery logistics including transport and storage on site.
• Maintain detailed machinery, safety and production records.
• Contribute to site planning discussions on machinery needs and sequencing.
• Undertake other senior site duties as directed by management.

Skills

Earthmoving machinery experience

Autonomous work

Site supervision

Grading/earthworks knowledge

Education

Civil construction or earthworks qualification

Tools

WTR certificate (Wheels, Tracks and Rollers)

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 16th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

The successful candidate will hold at least three years of relevant experience operating earth moving machinery, or a relevant qualification in civil construction, earthworks, or a closely related field. A current Wheels, Tracks and Rollers (WTR) certificate covering multiple machine types beneficial. Strong technical knowledge of grading, excavation, and site preparation is essential, along with the ability to work with minimal supervision on complex sites.

We are seeking an experienced Earth Moving Machine Operator to take a lead operational role across construction and earthworks projects. This role requires advanced technical skill, sound judgement, and the ability to work autonomously on demanding sites.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate a wide range of earth moving machinery, including excavators, bulldozers, graders, and loaders, to a high standard of precision
• Independently interpret site plans, survey data, and grade requirements to guide complex earthworks
• Perform advanced grading, cut-and-fill, and levelling work to fine tolerances
• Identify and troubleshoot machinery faults, coordinating repairs or maintenance as needed
• Provide guidance and oversight to less experienced operators or ground crew
• Liaise directly with site supervisors and engineers on technical and scheduling matters
• Ensure full compliance with site-specific safety plans and hazard management procedures
• Manage machinery logistics, including transport, positioning, and secure storage on site
• Maintain detailed and accurate machinery, safety, and production records
• Contribute to site planning discussions, providing input on machinery requirements and sequencing
• Undertake other senior site duties as directed by management