Rigger Dogman

Smith Crane & Construction; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Smith Crane & Construction is seeking a competent and experienced Rigger Dogman to join our Christchurch team. You will work with lift plans, rigging gear, and crane operations, maintaining a strong focus on safety and clear communication with operators and site teams.

We offer training and development opportunities for the right person, with a pathway toward a trainee crane operator role for motivated individuals.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ rigging experience in construction or lifting operations.
• Full New Zealand Driver’s Licence (or overseas equivalent).
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug & alcohol test.
• Clear spoken English and strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Select, inspect, and use rigging and lifting equipment per site procedures and specs.
• Accurately sling loads and signal crane operators.
• Identify and control load movement for safe lifting.
• Conduct pre-start checks on rigging gear and lifting appliances.
• Report defects or hazards and remove unsafe equipment from service.

Skills

Rigging & lifting operations

Safety compliance

Clear communication

NZ Driver's licence

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.

Smith Crane & Construction – Christchurch, South Island

We are looking for a competent and experienced Rigger Dogman to join our team. You will be confident working with lift plans, rigging gear, and crane operations. You’ll need to have solid industry experience, a strong focus on safety, and the ability to communicate clearly with operators and site teams.

We are also open to hearing from motivated individuals interested in a trainee crane operator pathway. If you’re reliable, safety-focused, and keen to build a long-term career in the industry, we can offer training and development opportunities for the right person.

About Us:

Smith Crane and Construction is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience, offering exceptional service across crane hire, civil construction (including marine civil and pre-cast manufacturing), transportation, and wind energy installation and maintenance. We pride ourselves on our strong team culture, commitment to safety, and continuing our family tradition of excellent customer focus and job execution.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Correctly select, inspect, and use rigging and lifting equipment in accordance with site procedures and manufacturer specifications
• Accurately sling loads and provide clear, standardised hand or radio signals to crane operators
• Identify and control load movement, ensuring balanced and secure lifting
• Conduct pre-start checks on rigging gear, lifting appliances, and associated equipment
• Report defects or hazards promptly and remove unsafe equipment from service
• Assist with preparing and reviewing lift plans, ensuring lifts are carried out according to plan
• Calculate load weights, centre of gravity, and suitable lifting points when required
• Proactively participate in ongoing training and competency assessments
• Contribute to a safe and healthy work environment by following procedures, identifying and reporting risks, and participating in training and safety initiatives

What We’re Looking For:

• US 30072 and 3789 (or overseas equivalent)
• Minimum 2 years’ industry experience
• Full New Zealand Driver’s Licence (or overseas equivalent)
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug & alcohol test
• Clear spoken English and strong communication skills
• Technical knowledge of crane types, specifications, and rating information
• Physically strong and capable of lifting crane blocks
• High standards of health & safety awareness and accountability
• Reliable, organised, resilient, and able to work well under pressure
• Positive, collaborative, and flexible team player
• Flexibility to travel for work is required
• You must also have the right to legally live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this position.
• Successful candidates will be subject to pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, a pre-employment medical and police vetting.

What We Offer:

• Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week
• Overtime rates
• Work with an industry leader in construction and heavy lifting.
• Be part of a supportive, safety-focused team.
• Ongoing development opportunities and job stability.

If you have any specific questions relating to the job, please contact Jess Williams; smithcranes.co.nz