Operator / Labourer

Higgins; Whanganui; On-site; NZD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fuel discounts

KiwiSaver employer contributions (4%)

Career progression

Training & development

Job summary

Higgins is hiring Operator/Labourers for our Palmerston North operation. This permanent, full-time role guarantees 40 hours per week and supports chip sealing and asphalt surfacing across the region.

You will join a hands-on crew, thrive outdoors, and contribute to safe, quality outcomes while developing skills and career progression within Higgins.

Qualifications

• Full Class 1 driver’s licence required.
• Experience in road surfacing or civil construction preferred.
• Ability to work as part of a crew in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to health, safety and wellbeing.

Responsibilities

• Assist with chip sealing and asphalt surfacing projects across the region.
• Work as part of a high-performing crew to deliver quality work.
• Support safe operating practices and on-site safety.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and learning on the job.

Skills

Full Class 1 driver’s licence

Team player

Health, safety & wellbeing

Manual labour

Willing to learn

Flexible for nights/weekends/travel

Tools

Licence endorsements (Class 2/4, WTR)

Job description

Description

Higgins Surfacing is looking for motivated Operator/Labourers to join our Palmerston North operation.

This is a permanent, full-time opportunity, guaranteed a minimum of 40 hours per week. Working as part of a high-performing crew, you'll help deliver chip sealing and asphalt surfacing projects across the region, contributing to the safe and efficient construction and maintenance of New Zealand's road network.

We're looking for team players who enjoy working outdoors, thrive in a hands-on environment, and are committed to delivering quality work safely.

What You’ll Bring To The Role

• Full Class 1 driver’s licence (Class 2, 4 and WTR endorsements highly advantageous)
• Experience in road surfacing, chip sealing, civil construction, or a related industry preferred
• Ability to work effectively as part of a crew in a fast-paced environment
• Strong commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing
• Good communication skills and a positive attitude
• Reliable, hardworking, and willing to learn
• Flexibility to work night shifts, weekends, and travel when required
• Physically fit and able to undertake manual labouring duties
• A strong work ethic and pride in delivering quality outcomes
• Commitment to continuous improvement and professional development

Come Join The Higgins Team

• Guaranteed 40 hours per week
• Permanent, full-time role with long-term career opportunities
• Competitive hourly rates and allowances
• Ongoing training, development, and career progression
• Supportive team culture where everyone looks out for each other
• Z fuel discounts, including a monthly free pie and coffee
• KiwiSaver employer contributions matched up to 4%
• Great benefits for you and your whānau

About Higgins

Higgins is a leading infrastructure and construction business, proudly delivering and maintaining roads, bridges, and civil projects across New Zealand. We are committed to safety, quality, sustainability, and innovation, while creating an environment where our people can learn, grow, and build rewarding careers. At Higgins, our people are at the heart of everything we do, because we know they are the foundation of our success.

Research shows that women and people from underrepresented groups often only apply when they meet every requirement. If you’re excited about this opportunity but don’t meet every criterion, we still encourage you to apply. We value diversity and welcome people of all backgrounds, cultures, experiences, and perspectives to our team.