Mobile Crane Operator - Mechanical Projects (Full-Time)

New Zealand Government; Southland; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 69,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Permanent full-time role

Job summary

New Zealand Government is seeking an experienced Mobile Crane Operator for full-time mechanical engineering projects in Southland. You will safely operate a mobile crane to support mechanical works, lifting and placing loads with high attention to safety and efficiency.

Key duties include testing plant safety, lifting operations, and coordinating with riggers on site. The role requires 2+ years of relevant experience, good communication, and physical fitness for long shifts.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience (qualification preferred but not compulsory).
• Background supporting mechanical, piping, or industrial construction projects (preferred but not compulsory).
• In‑depth understanding of load charts, lifting limits, rigging practices, and site safety protocols.
• Ability to read and execute lift plans and technical site procedures accurately.
• High reliability, strong communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining zero‑harm operations.

Responsibilities

• Testing the operation of plant before use to ensure safety.
• Operating controls to rotate cranes, move cranes on fixed rails, raise and lower jibs and booms, and raise, lower and move hooks and objects.
• Working in conjunction with Construction Riggers and Crane Chasers to position hooks and raise, move and place loads.
• Controlling the movement of loads, and monitoring speed, acceleration and braking distances directly and by signalling to other operators.
• Monitoring plant operation, instruments and gauges to detect malfunctions and problems.
• Lubricating ropes and winches on cranes and replacing worn cables.
• May operate cranes fitted with attachments for purposes such as demolition and pile driving.
• May operate overhead cranes using hand controls suspended by cables from cranes.

Skills

Load charts understanding

Rigging practices

Safety protocols

Clear communication

Physical fitness

Education

Crane operator qualification preferred

Tools

Mobile crane operation

Overhead crane operation

Job description

New Zealand Government is seeking an experienced Mobile Crane Operator for full-time mechanical engineering projects in Southland. You will safely operate a mobile crane to support mechanical works, lifting and placing loads with high attention to safety and efficiency.

Key duties include testing plant safety, lifting operations, and coordinating with riggers on site. The role requires 2+ years of relevant experience, good communication, and physical fitness for long shifts.