Leading Hand Civil Structures

Franklin Smith Group; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 48,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hourly rate: 35–40 NZD

Career progression to Foreman

Challenging structures projects

Long-term opportunity

Job summary

Franklin Smith Group in Christchurch leads civil construction projects across the South Island. The ideal candidate will manage crews on-site, ensure safety and quality, and drive delivery of retaining walls, bridges, and concrete structures while interpreting plans and specs.

We seek experienced leaders with strong communication who can progress into a Foreman role, with ongoing development on varied, technically challenging projects and long-term opportunities.

Qualifications

• Experience as a Leading Hand or senior civil operator in New Zealand.
• Strong civil construction background.
• Experience with concrete or civil structures preferred.
• Confident reading construction drawings.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Work hands-on and lead by example.
• Lead and coordinate crews on-site.
• Deliver retaining walls, bridges and concrete structures.
• Read and interpret plans and specifications.
• Coordinate labour, plant and materials.
• Maintain high standards of safety and quality.
• Assist with daily planning and site reporting.

Skills

Leadership

On-site coordination

Plan interpretation

Civil construction experience

Communication

Job description

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Franklin Smith Group – Christchurch, South Island

We are looking for an experienced Leading Hand to join a growing civil construction team, working across a range of civil structures projects throughout Christchurch. You’ll lead crews on the ground while working alongside the Foreman to deliver retaining walls, bridges, reinforced concrete structures and other civil infrastructure. This is a great opportunity for an experienced Leading Hand looking to take the next step, with a genuine pathway into a Foreman role.

Key Responsibilities

• Work hands-on and lead by example
• Lead and coordinate crews on-site
• Deliver retaining walls, bridges and concrete structures
• Read and interpret plans and specifications
• Coordinate labour, plant and materials
• Maintain high standards of safety and quality
• Assist with daily planning and site reporting

About You

• Experience as a Leading Hand or experienced civil operator in New Zealand
• Strong civil construction background
• Experience with concrete or civil structures preferred
• Confident reading construction drawings
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Keen to progress into a Foreman position

What's on Offer

• $35–$40 per hour, depending on experience
• Genuine progression into a Foreman role
• Varied and technically challenging structures projects
• Long-term opportunity with an established contractor

Candidates must have the right to live and work in New Zealand and may be required to complete pre-employment drug and alcohol screening.