Leading Hand - Retaining & Foundation Work

Looking out for people; New Zealand; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A major construction recruitment firm is seeking a skilled Labourer to lead teams and manage construction sites across North Island, NZ. The role offers full-time hours, competitive pay ($30–$40/hr), and requires experience in retaining/foundation work. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills and be willing to travel. Opportunities for upskilling and growth are also provided.

Benefits

Consistent full-time hours

Opportunities to upskill

Great team culture

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in retaining/foundation work.
• Confidence reading plans and supervising crews.
• Willingness to travel and stay away for jobs.

Responsibilities

• Construct timber, palisade, and concrete retaining walls.
• Lead small on-site teams and oversee daily workflow.
• Ensure site safety and procure materials.

Skills

Retaining/foundation work experience

Attention to detail

Plan reading

Communication skills

Time management

Team leadership

Job description

Overview

You’ll be working full-time, leading a team on a variety of sites across the North Island. This is a practical, hands-on role that involves both supervision and physical labour. The role will require extended periods of travel (2-3 week blocks) outside Auckland from time to time.

Responsibilities

• Constructing timber, palisade, and concrete retaining walls
• Re-levelling, re-piling, and foundation strengthening
• Reading plans, marking out sites, and estimating materials
• Operating drills, piling gear, and other machinery
• Leading small on-site teams and overseeing daily workflow
• Procuring materials and ensuring site safety

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in retaining/foundation work
• Strong attention to detail and site safety
• Confidence reading plans and supervising crews
• Great communication and time management skills
• A full driver’s licence with WTR endorsements
• LBP (Foundations) preferred but not required
• Willingness to travel and stay away for jobs

What’s in it for You?

• $30–$40/hr depending on experience + weekly pay
• Consistent, full-time hours with respected contractors
• Variety of sites and travel around the North Island
• Great team culture and hands-on leadership experience
• Opportunities to upskill and grow within the company

About Us

We are New Zealand’s largest integrated provider of skilled contract labour, delivering specialised talent to the construction sector. With industry-leading experience and a strong commitment to delivering results, we take pride in supporting both our clients and our candidates. We offer tailored recruitment solutions and have built a trusted reputation for connecting quality talent with outstanding roles.

What’s Next

Apply now- we're moving fast!

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted quickly — so keep your phone handy.

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand.