Earthmoving Plant Operator (General)

Tradestaff New Zealand; Hamilton; On-site; NZD 97,424,000 - 106,020,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Pay rate: NZD 34–37 per hour

PPE supplied by Tradestaff

On-site parking

Projects across Waikato and Bay of Plt

Job summary

Tradestaff New Zealand is seeking an experienced Drill Rig / Pile Rig Operator to join our civil construction team in Waikato. You will operate drill and pile rigs to install piles and foundations on residential, commercial and industrial projects, with a strong emphasis on safety and quality.

You’ll work with spotters and ground crew, perform pre-start checks, and contribute to on-site productivity across varied projects in Waikato and Bay of Plenty. Benefits include weekly pay and PPE provided.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating drill rigs, pile rigs, or similar heavy machinery.
• Calm, safety‑minded operator with good communication on site.
• Strong ability to coordinate with spotters and supervisors.

Responsibilities

• Operating drill rigs and related machinery for piling and foundation works
• Completing pre-start checks and monitoring equipment performance
• Working with spotters and site crew to install piles safely and accurately
• Maintaining productivity and following site safety procedures

Skills

Drill rig operation

Safety focus

Communication

Class 2 licence advantage

Education

Class 2 licence

Job description

Drill Rig / Pile Rig & Excavator Operator
– Waikato

We’re looking for an experienced Drill Rig / Pile Rig Operator to join a respected New Zealand owned and operated civil construction contractor. The company specialises in drilling, piling, and foundation solutions across residential, commercial, and industrial projects. With a modern fleet and industry experience, they’re trusted to deliver quality foundation and civil works in a variety of environments, including challenging and hard-to-access sites.

About the Role

You’ll operate drill and pile rigs to install piles and foundations. This includes pre-drilling for bridge abutments, retaining walls, and foundations for residential and commercial builds. You’ll be working with spotters and ground crew, so clear communication and safe, steady operation of equipment is essential.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Operating drill rigs and related machinery for piling and foundation works
• Completing pre-start checks and monitoring equipment performance
• Working with spotters and site crew to install piles safely and accurately
• Maintaining productivity and following site safety procedures

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience operating drill rigs, pile rigs, or similar heavy machinery
• Calm, controlled operator with a strong focus on safety
• Good communication with spotters and supervisors
• Class 2 licence or higher an advantage

What’s in it for you?

• Weekly pay
• Pay rate:$34 – $37 per hour, paid weekly
• PPE supplied by Tradestaff
• On-site parking
• Variety of projects across Waikato and Bay of Plenty