Excavator / Machine Operator Specialist

Canstaff; Otago; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 83,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly rates

Ongoing work around Queenstown

Long-term opportunity

Job summary

Canstaff is seeking an experienced operator for precision drilling projects around Queenstown. You will manage excavator-mounted drilling and specialist attachments on technically demanding sites, ensuring safety and accuracy in challenging environments.

Applicants should have proven experience with drilling and piling attachments, and be comfortable working in tight-access and variable terrain as part of a skilled crew. Long-term opportunities are available for the right candidate.

Qualifications

• Experience operating excavators in civil or geotechnical construction.
• Skilled with drilling attachments, augers, masts and vibratory hammers.
• Ability to read plans and follow methods safely.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavator-mounted drilling and specialist attachments on demanding projects.
• Maintain safety, plan integrity, and controlled machine movements in tight spaces.
• Work with a skilled crew on piling, anchor installation and slope stabilization.

Skills

Excavator operation

Geotechnical drilling

Plan reading

Tools

Augers

Drill masts

Vibratory hammers

Job description

Not bulk earthworks. Precision digging, drilling & real skill required. Join a top crew in Queenstown.

This is not bulk earthworks. We’re looking for a skilled operator who understands precision construction work, machine setup, stability, and safety in challenging environments.

You’ll be working with excavator-mounted drilling and specialist attachments on technically demanding projects including:

• Piling operations
• Ground anchor installation
• Retaining & slope stabilisation systems
• Precision drilling in tight-access environments

What We’re Looking For:

Experience operating excavators in civil, geotechnical, or specialist construction environments, with confidence working around:

• Drilling & piling attachments
• Augers, drill masts & vibratory hammers
• Retaining & anchor systems
• Tight benches, steep terrain & restricted access sites
• Underground and live services

Ability to read plans, follow methodology, and work safely as part of a skilled crew is essential.

What Makes This Role Different:

• Precision-focused work, not production digging!
• High level of technical skill and planning required
• Challenging terrain and restricted-access sites
• Strong focus on quality, safety, and machine control
• Opportunity to develop specialist geotechnical skills

What’s On Offer

• Competitive hourly rates based on experience
• Ongoing work in and around Queenstown
• Work alongside a highly experienced crew
• Long-term opportunity for the right operator

If you take pride in precise operating and enjoy technical projects that require skill and attention to detail, we’d like to hear from you.