Excavator Operators

NZ Labour Hire; Whangarei; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

New Zealand Labour Hire is seeking experienced Excavator Operators to join our team on a major site in Whangarei. You will operate and maintain excavation equipment on client projects, ensuring safety standards and efficient completion to specification.

Hold a current WTR license, proven excavator experience, and the ability to read site plans with a strong safety mindset. Opportunities to go full-time with the client on completion of site work, with reliable hours and competitive rates in the

Qualifications

• Hold a current WTR license and proven excavator experience.
• Ability to read and interpret site plans and specifications.
• Strong safety mindset and reliable, professional approach.

Responsibilities

• Operate 5–15 Ton Excavators safely and efficiently on site.
• Perform pre-operation inspections and maintenance checks.
• Excavate, grade and move materials as directed by supervisors.
• Maintain accurate records of work, fuel usage and hours.
• Communicate effectively with site teams to ensure progress, safety and quality.
• Adhere to site safety protocols and environmental requirements.
• Identify and report equipment faults promptly.

Skills

Excavator operation

Health and safety compliance

Site plan reading

Teamwork & communication

Physical fitness

NZQA Level 3 cert (or equivalent)

Education

NZQA Level 3 or equivalent

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.

New Zealand Labour Hire is seeking experienced Excavator Operators to join our team on a major site in Whangarei. This is an excellent opportunity for skilled plant and machinery operators looking for ongoing work in the Whangarei Central Northland area. As an Excavator Operator, you will be responsible for operating and maintaining excavation equipment on the client's major construction projects, ensuring safety standards are met and work is completed efficiently and to specification. This role offers great working hours and the potential to go full time with the client themselves.

Key responsibilities

• Operate 5 Ton to 15 Ton Excavators safely and efficiently in accordance with all health and safety regulations and site requirements
• Conduct pre-operation inspections and maintenance checks on excavation equipment to ensure optimal performance
• Excavate, grade and move materials as directed by site supervisors and project specifications
• Maintain accurate records of work completed, fuel usage and equipment hours
• Communicate effectively with site teams, supervisors and other operators to ensure smooth project progress
• Adhere to all site-specific safety protocols, procedures and environmental requirements
• Assist with identifying and reporting any equipment faults or maintenance issues promptly
• Support other team members and contribute to a positive and professional work environment

What we're looking for

• Hold a current WTR license
• Proven experience operating excavators in a construction environment
• Strong understanding of health and safety requirements and site protocols
• Ability to read and interpret site plans and specifications
• Excellent spatial awareness and precision in equipment operation
• Reliable, punctual and professional approach to work
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Physical fitness and ability to work in outdoor conditions
• Current or willingness to obtain relevant certifications (such as NZQA Level 3 or equivalent)

What we offer

New Zealand Labour Hire offers the opportunity for our workers to work close to home and the opportunity to go full time with the client, call us your steppingstone to full-time work. You will have the opportunity to work on diverse construction projects across the Whangarei Central Northland region, building valuable experience and expanding your professional network. We are committed to providing a safe working environment, competitive rates of pay, and opportunities for experienced operators to progress within the construction industry. We value our workers and aim to support your professional development and wellbeing in the workplace.

About us

New Zealand Labour Hire is a trusted Labour Hire provider serving the construction and plant and machinery sector throughout New Zealand. We are dedicated to connecting skilled operators with quality construction projects, maintaining high standards of safety, professionalism and reliability. Our mission is to support both our workers and our clients by providing dependable staffing solutions and fostering a culture of excellence within the construction industry. We pride ourselves on our understanding of the sector and our commitment to our team members' success and satisfaction.