Piling & Drill Rig Operator

Halverson Civil Limited; New Zealand; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing training and development

Job summary

Halverson Civil Limited is seeking an experienced operator to join our ground engineering team in New Zealand. You will operate modern piling and drilling rigs across technically challenging projects, supporting site crews and delivering projects safely and efficiently.

The role requires proven rig operation experience, a strong safety mindset, and NZ residency or valid work status. Ongoing development and long-term opportunities are available within a close-knit, professional team.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating piling and/or drilling rigs in civil/geotechnical construction.
• Strong understanding of piling/drilling methodologies and safe operating practices.
• NZ residency or valid NZ work visa preferred.
• Full NZ Class 2 Driver Licence with WTR endorsement (or equivalent) and relevant certifications advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Operate piling and drilling rigs efficiently and safely on projects.
• Manage varied ground conditions using appropriate techniques.
• Perform pre-operational checks and basic fault identification on rigs.
• Coordinate with team to plan piling activities and maintain schedules.
• Adhere to health and safety regulations on-site.

Skills

Piling rig operation

Drilling rig operation

Heavy machinery operation

Health & safety focus

Education

NZ Class 2 Driver Licence with WTR endorsement

Tools

Piling rigs & drilling rigs

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.

Halverson Civil Limited is seeking an experienced and motivated operator to join our growing ground engineering team. This role involves operating modern piling and drilling rigs across a diverse range of technically challenging projects. Working alongside a skilled crew, the role will involve operating heavy machinery, supporting site crews, maintaining equipment, and helping deliver projects safely and efficiently.

This role suits someone who takes pride in operating specialist plant and is comfortable working in varied and complex ground conditions. The successful applicant will be given real responsibility from day one and will have opportunities to develop their skills across piling, ground improvement, earthworks, and other specialist construction activities. We are committed to helping our people grow and progress within the business.

Key responsibilities

• Operate piling and drilling rigs efficiently and safely in accordance with project requirements
• Manage varied and complex ground conditions using appropriate drilling and piling techniques
• Conduct pre-operational checks, routine maintenance, and basic fault identification on rigs and associated plant
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to coordinate piling activities effectively
• Adhere to all health and safety regulations and protocols on-site

About you

• Proven experience operating piling and/or drilling rigs in a civil or geotechnical construction environment
• Strong understanding of piling and drilling methodologies, ground conditions, and safe operating practices
• Comfortable working on technically demanding projects, including tight or difficult access sites
• Full New Zealand Class 2 Driver Licence with WTR endorsement (or Class 1 with relevant endorsements) and appropriate certifications for piling rig operation is advantageous
• NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork
• Full PPE provided
• Consistent working hours and weekly pay
• Access to a modern fleet of piling and drilling rigs and equipment
• Ongoing training and development in specialist ground engineering
• Opportunities for career growth within the company
• Exposure to diverse and technically challenging projects
• Long-term work opportunity in a professional team environment

About us

For more than 30 years, Halverson Civil Limited (HCL) has delivered specialist ground engineering solutions across Wellington and the lower North Island. HCL's expertise spans deep foundation piling, retaining structures, ground anchors, slope stabilisation and associated ground improvement civil works. Supported by experienced people and a modern, purpose-selected plant fleet, HCL is known for safe delivery, technical precision, early contractor involvement and value-engineered outcomes on complex projects in constrained environments.

As a small company, Halverson Civil offers something different from the larger contractors. You will not simply be another cog in a big machine—you will work closely with an experienced team, have a direct impact on projects, and play an important role in shaping the future of the company. If you are hardworking, reliable, and keen to build a long-term career in the civil construction industry, we would love to hear from you.