Plant operators

Ventia; Whangarei; On-site; NZD 48,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Ventia in Whangārei is seeking experienced Plant Operators to join our Roading Maintenance and Construction team. You will operate a range of civil construction equipment on roading projects, helping to keep communities connected while maintaining high safety standards.

We value teamwork, reliable performance, and a proactive approach. Full Class 1 with WTR endorsement is preferred, plus GPS/machine control experience.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating heavy plant in civil construction/roading.
• Full Class 1 licence with WTR endorsement (Classes 2/4/5 advantageous).
• Experience in road maintenance or related civil projects.
• Commitment to safety, environmental and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate a variety of plant and machinery including excavators, rollers, loaders, graders, and other civil construction equipment.
• Carry out road maintenance, pavement rehabilitation, drainage, and construction activities.
• Complete pre-start inspections and basic maintenance checks on equipment.
• Work collaboratively with supervisors and crew members to achieve project targets.
• Ensure all work is completed safely and in accordance with company procedures.
• Maintain high standards of workmanship and environmental compliance.
• Assist with general labouring duties when required.

Skills

Heavy plant operation

Teamwork

Health & safety

GPS/machine control

Class 1 with WTR endorsement

Education

Civil industry qualifications or tickets

Job description

Join Our Team in Whangarei!

We are seeking experienced and motivated Plant Operators to join our growing Roading Maintenance and Construction team. This is an exciting opportunity to work on a variety of infrastructure projects, helping to maintain and improve the transport networks that keep our communities connected.

If you enjoy operating heavy machinery, take pride in delivering quality work, and value working as part of a supportive team, we'd love to hear from you.

About The Role

As a Plant Operator, you will be responsible for safely and efficiently operating a range of civil construction and maintenance equipment across roading projects. Working alongside skilled crews, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality outcomes while maintaining excellent health and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate a variety of plant and machinery including excavators, rollers, loaders, graders, and other civil construction equipment.
• Carry out road maintenance, pavement rehabilitation, drainage, and construction activities.
• Complete pre-start inspections and basic maintenance checks on equipment.
• Work collaboratively with supervisors and crew members to achieve project targets.
• Ensure all work is completed safely and in accordance with company procedures.
• Maintain high standards of workmanship and environmental compliance.
• Assist with general labouring duties when required.

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience operating heavy plant within the civil construction and/or roading industry.
• Full Class 1 driver's licence with WTR endorsement (Class 2, 4, or 5 licence advantageous).
• Experience in road maintenance, sealing, pavement construction, drainage works, or similar civil infrastructure projects.
• Machine control and GPS experience would be highly regarded.
• Strong commitment to health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team while also taking initiative and ownership of your work.
• Reliable, hardworking, and motivated with a positive attitude.
• Relevant industry qualifications, certifications, or tickets are desirable.

What's On Offer

• Stable, long-term employment with a respected industry leader.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Variety of projects and modern equipment.
• A positive team culture focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Ventia Benefits

• Southern Cross Health Essentials plan
• Special rates with Southern cross
• Access to Fitness Passport
• Fuel and retail discounts via the BOOST app

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand and may be required to undergo pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.

About Ventia

As a leading services provider, we maintain, operate, and manage the essential infrastructure that makes modern life possible across Australia and New Zealand. With more than 35,000 employees and subcontractors across 400 sites, joining Ventia means becoming part of a team that values its people, supports career growth, and helps everyone go further towards their full potential.

Our commitment to Fairness, Inclusion and Respect shapes how we lead, collaborate, hire and support one another. We welcome applications from people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, including Māori and Pasifika peoples and people of all genders, identities, sexual orientations, beliefs and caring responsibilities. We are dedicated to providing an accessible recruitment process and encourage you to request adjustments at any stage.

Position Reference Number: 168381