Mobile Crane Operator

Smith Crane & Construction; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Overtime rates

Queenstown location

Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Smith Crane & Construction in Queenstown, NZ is seeking a skilled Mobile Crane Operator to join our Queenstown team. You’ll deliver safe and efficient lifting solutions across commercial, infrastructure and construction projects in the region.

You’ll work with experienced operators and site teams, based in Queenstown or relocating. A NZ Crane Operation certificate (Level 3 or 4) and a NZ driver’s licence with appropriate endorsements are desirable, along with a strong commitment to safety.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ crane operation experience in construction/infrastructure.
• NZ Certificate in Crane Operation (Level 3 or 4) – desirable.
• Full NZ Driver’s Licence with appropriate endorsements (Class 2 or 4, WTR) or valid Australian heavy vehicle licence.

Responsibilities

• Operate mobile cranes in accordance with lift plans and site requirements.
• Assist with crane mobilisation, setup and demobilisation.
• Inspect and maintain lifting equipment; report defects promptly.
• Communicate clearly with team members during lifting operations.
• Perform routine crane maintenance and safety checks.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and health & safety regulations.
• Represent Smith Crane & Construction professionally at all times

Skills

Crane operation

Safe lifting practices

Teamwork

Communication

Based in Queenstown

Education

NZ Certificate in Crane Operation (Level 3 or 4)

Unit Standards in crane operation (e.g., US 3795, 3789)

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.

Smith Crane & Construction – Queenstown, South Island

Imagine finishing work with world-class mountains, lakes and adventure right on your doorstep.

Smith Crane & Construction is looking for a skilled Mobile Crane Operator to join our Queenstown team. This is an opportunity to enjoy the lifestyle Queenstown is famous for while working for a nationally recognised crane and construction business trusted on some of New Zealand's most significant projects.

You’ll work alongside experienced operators, riggers and site teams, delivering safe and efficient lifting solutions across a variety of commercial, infrastructure and construction projects throughout the region.

If you’re already based in Queenstown, or looking to make the move, we’d love to hear from you.

About Us:

Smith Crane and Construction is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience, offering exceptional service across crane hire, civil construction (including marine civil and pre-cast manufacturing), transportation, and wind energy installation and maintenance. We pride ourselves on our strong team culture, commitment to safety, and continuing our family tradition of excellent customer focus and job execution.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Operate mobile cranes in accordance with lift plans and site requirements
• Assist with crane mobilisation, setup and demobilisation
• Inspect and maintain lifting equipment; report defects promptly
• Communicate clearly with team members during lifting operations
• Perform routine crane maintenance and safety checks
• Ensure compliance with company policies and health & safety regulations
• Represent Smith Crane & Construction professionally at all times

What We’re Looking For:

• Minimum 2 years’ crane operation experience in construction/infrastructure
• Based in Queenstown, or intending to relocate
• New Zealand Certificate in Crane Operation (Level 3 or 4) – desirable
• Unit Standards in crane operation (e.g., US 3795, 3789,) or equivalent Australian qualifications (with NZQA equivalency)
• BESS licence
• Full NZ Driver’s License with appropriate endorsements (Class 2 or 4, WTR) or valid Australian heavy vehicle license (with ability to transfer)
• Strong understanding of safe lifting practices and NZ health & safety regulations
• Ability to pass a drug & alcohol test and pre-employment medical
• Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and teamwork skills
• Physically fit and able to work in varied environment

What We Offer:

• Overtime rates
• Queenstown location
• Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week
• Join a supportive, down-to-earth team
• Opportunity to grow your career and industry knowledge
• Join an industry leader in NZ Construction projects

Please note, successful candidates will be subject to pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, a pre-employment medical and police vetting.

You must also have the right to legally live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this position.

Applications will be assessed as they are received.