Operator

Te Anau Earthworks Ltd; Te Anau; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Te Anau Earthworks Ltd in Te Anau, Southland, is seeking an experienced Operator to join our team. This full-time role focuses on operating earthmoving machinery and excavators with some hands-on labouring duties on site.

You will be responsible for selecting attachments, reading plans, ensuring safety, and liaising with site managers to meet project deadlines. A valid Class 2 licence and pre-employment medical are required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year's experience operating excavators or similar heavy earthmoving machinery (or relevant).
• A current Class 2 driver's licence with Rollers, Tracks and Wheels (R, T, W) endorsement (or overseas equivalent).
• Ability to pass a pre-employment medical.
• Knowledge of different types of digging and grading attachments.
• Knowledge of safe work practices and health and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Operating a range of earthmoving machines, including excavators, in a safe and appropriate manner.
• Selecting, fitting and removing attachments such as buckets, blades and rock-breaking hammers.
• Operating controls to excavate, break, drill, level, compact, gouge out, move, load and spread earth, rock, rubble, soil and other materials.
• Preparing and positioning plant for operation on site.
• Using GPS, and reading plans and diagrams, to guide excavation and grading work.
• Performing regular maintenance and safety checks of equipment, including servicing, lubricating, refuelling and minor adjustments/repairs.
• Some raking or digging by hand when required.
• Liaising with site managers and clients.
• Meeting health and safety regulations, including completing accident and near-miss reports.
• Completing and submitting daily timesheets

Skills

Earthmoving machinery

Teamwork

Safety minded

Problem-solving

Tools

GPS

Plans reading

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.

We are seeking an experienced Operator to join our dedicated team at Te Anau Earthworks Ltd in Te Anau, Southland. This is a full-time position primarily operating a range of earthmoving machinery and excavators, with some hands-on labouring duties as required. Your role will be crucial in supporting the successful delivery of our earthworks and construction projects.

Key responsibilities

• Operating a range of earthmoving machines, including excavators, in a safe and appropriate manner
• Selecting, fitting and removing attachments such as buckets, blades and rock-breaking hammers
• Operating controls to excavate, break, drill, level, compact, gouge out, move, load and spread earth, rock, rubble, soil and other materials
• Preparing and positioning plant for operation on site
• Using GPS, and reading plans and diagrams, to guide excavation and grading work
• Performing regular maintenance and safety checks of equipment, including servicing, lubricating, refuelling and minor adjustments/repairs
• Some raking or digging by hand when required
• Liaising with site managers and clients
• Meeting health and safety regulations, including completing accident and near-miss reports
• Completing and submitting daily timesheets

About you

• Minimum 1 year's experience operating excavators or similar heavy earthmoving machinery (or relevant)
• A current Class 2 driver's licence with Rollers, Tracks and Wheels (R, T, W) endorsement (or overseas equivalent)
• Ability to pass a pre-employment medical
• Knowledge of different types of digging and grading attachments
• Knowledge of safe work practices and health and safety regulations
• Good problem-solving skills and use of initiative
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
• Attention to detail and a safety-conscious attitude

About us

Te Anau Earthworks Ltd is a leading civil construction company based in the heart of Southland. With over 20 years of experience, we specialise in a range of earthworks, landscaping, and construction projects around Southland. Our team of dedicated professionals are passionate about what they do and take pride in delivering exceptional results for our clients.