Excavator Operator

The Isaac Construction Co Limited; Dunedin; On-site; NZD 34,440 - 48,216; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

40 hrs guaranteed

Competitive hourly rate

Safety-focused team

Job summary

The Isaac Construction Co Limited is seeking an experienced excavator operator for our kerb and footpath contract team in Dunedin. You will operate excavators on kerb, channel and footpath dig outs, working with the site foreman to ensure work is completed safely, on time and to specification.

We value a safety-focused approach, good communication, and the ability to work well in a small team outdoors in varying weather. A Class 2 NZ driver licence and WTR are preferred.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating excavators on kerb, channel and footpath or similar civil construction projects.
• Class 2 NZ driver licence and WTR.
• Strong awareness of health and safety obligations, including experience with traffic management and working near live carriageways.
• Good communication skills, a reliable work ethic and the ability to work effectively within a small team.
• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators for trenching, digging, kerb and channel preparation, footpath formation and other earthworks.
• Assist with setting out and grade checking works, preparing formation to levels, and profiling for kerb and concrete pours.
• Work collaboratively with labourers, concreters, traffic management and the site foreman to sequence tasks efficiently and meet programme requirements.
• Follow site-specific health and safety procedures, use PPE correctly and participate in toolbox talks and safety meetings.
• Ensure all work complies with project specifications, quality standards and council requirements for kerb and footpath construction.

Skills

Excavator operation

Traffic management

Health & safety awareness

Teamwork

Outdoor work

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and safety‑focussed excavator operator to join our kerb and footpath contract team in Dunedin. This role is ideal for someone who takes pride in delivering high-quality civil works, enjoys working outdoors, and wants to be part of a skilled crew delivering essential local infrastructure.

As an excavator operator, you will operate excavators on kerb, channel and footpath dig outs & preparation, working closely with the site foreman and team to complete works safely, on time and to specification.

What you’ll be doing

• Operate excavators for trenching, digging, kerb and channel preparation, footpath formation and other earthworks.

• Assist with setting out and grade checking works, preparing formation to levels, and profiling for kerb and concrete pours.

• Work collaboratively with labourers, concreters, traffic management and the site foreman to sequence tasks efficiently and meet programme requirements.

• Follow site‑specific health and safety procedures, use PPE correctly and participate in toolbox talks and safety meetings.

• Ensure all work complies with project specifications, quality standards and council requirements for kerb and footpath construction.

What you’ll bring

• Proven experience operating excavators on kerb, channel and footpath or similar civil construction projects.

• Class 2 NZ driver licence and WTR.

• Strong awareness of health and safety obligations, including experience with traffic management and working near live carriageways.

• Good communication skills, a reliable work ethic and the ability to work effectively within a small team.

• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Why join the Isaac Group?

At Isaac Construction, our people are central to our success. We offer a supportive team environment, opportunities for skill development, and the chance to work on meaningful local infrastructure projects across Dunedin and the wider region.

We prioritise safety, quality and a positive workplace culture. You will work alongside experienced construction professionals and be supported to further your plant operation skills.

Benefits

• Permanent opportunities: With a minimum of 40 hrs Guaranteed.

• Competitive pay: Hourly rate based on skills and experience.

• Training and development: Access to upskilling and ticketing support to grow your career in civil construction.

• Supportive team culture: Work with experienced crews who value safety and quality workmanship.

Eligibility & Next Steps

All applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand. The successful candidate will be required to undertake a pre‑employment medical, including drug and alcohol testing, and provide evidence of relevant tickets and licences.

Note to Recruitment Agencies: We do not accept unsolicited CVs for this vacancy.

If you are ready to join a committed team delivering kerb and footpath works in Dunedin, please apply now with a current CV detailing your excavator experience, tickets and availability.