Grader Operator

Higgins; Bay of Plenty; On-site; NZD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

KiwiSaver employer contribution (4%)

40 hours per week

Permanent role

Upskill and new licenses

Retail discounts

Fuel discounts (pie & coffee)

Job summary

Higgins in Mount Maunganui is seeking an experienced Grader Operator to join our civil construction team. You will work across earthworks, pavement and infrastructure projects delivering accurate grading and high-quality workmanship.

You’ll operate modern equipment, read plans, perform pre-start checks and collaborate with supervision and crews. A current Class 1 licence with WTR endorsements is required, with higher licences a bonus.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating graders within civil construction environments.
• Strong understanding of earthworks, pavement construction and site preparation.
• Ability to achieve accurate line, level and finished surface requirements.
• Current Class 1 licence with WTR endorsements.
• Higher licences (Class 2/4/5) advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Operate graders safely and efficiently across civil construction projects.
• Complete trimming and grading work to required levels and tolerances.
• Read and work from plans, specifications and site requirements.
• Carry out daily pre-start checks and report defects promptly.
• Work alongside supervisors, surveyors and construction crews to keep projects moving.
• Maintain high standards of safety, environmental care and equipment upkeep.

Skills

Grader operation

Earthworks knowledge

Reading plans & specs

Safety focus

Team communication

Education

Class 1 licence

WTR endorsements

Class 2 licence advantageous

Class 4/5 licences advantageous

Job description

We're looking for an experienced Grader Operator to join our civil construction team based in Mount Maunganui.

This is a hands-on role working across earthworks, pavement and infrastructure projects where accuracy, safety and quality workmanship matter. You'll operate modern equipment, work alongside experienced crews and play a key role in delivering quality civil works across the Bay of Plenty.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate graders safely and efficiently across civil construction projects
• Complete trimming and grading work to required levels and tolerances
• Read and work from plans, specifications and site requirements
• Carry out daily pre-start checks and report defects promptly
• Work alongside supervisors, surveyors and construction crews to keep projects moving
• Maintain high standards of safety, environmental care and equipment upkeep

About You

• Proven experience operating graders within civil construction environments
• Strong understanding of earthworks, pavement construction and site preparation
• Ability to achieve accurate line, level and finished surface requirements
• Current Class 1 licence and relevant Wheels, Tracks and Rollers (WTR) endorsements
• Class 2, 4 or 5 licences advantageous
• Confident reading plans and following construction specifications
• Reliable, safety-focused and able to communicate effectively with site teams

Why Join Us

• Competitive hourly rate
• Permanent role with guaranteed 40 hours per week
• KiwiSaver employer contribution matched up to 4%
• Opportunity to upskill and gain further licenses
• Retail discounts for you and your family to enjoy
• Z fuel discounts including a monthly free pie and coffee

We're with you on the road ahead - Ko tatou kei a koe i te huarahi kei mua

Higgins is a leading construction and infrastructure company, proudly building and maintaining roads, bridges, and civil projects that connect communities across New Zealand. With a strong focus on safety, quality, and sustainability, we deliver projects that make a real difference. At Higgins, you’ll join a team that values collaboration, innovation, and career growth – because we believe our people are the foundation of our success.

Higgins is committed to a drug-free workplace. The successful applicant will be required to pass pre-employment drug and alcohol testing along with a health check – you’ll need to be fit for work!

Research shows that females and minority groups don’t always apply for roles unless they match 100% of the requirements.

We are enriched by many nationalities, languages, religions, customs, and lifestyles. We are proud of our diversity and see it as one of the things that make us better together.