Ships Digger Operators - Taranaki Port

Qube; New Plymouth; On-site; NZD 69,000 - 96,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly rate

Casual positions

Training and development

Job summary

Qube Ports NZ is offering casual ships digger operator roles at our Taranaki port operation. You will operate a 20T excavator with a log grapple to stow logs in vessel holds and on deck, within a live port environment. This is a precision role demanding safety focus and clear communication.

Casual positions with flexible shifts, ongoing training, and development opportunities. Full NZ driver’s license required; pre-employment checks apply.

Qualifications

• Experience operating excavators with grapple attachments.
• Team-oriented with a strong safety focus.
• Willing to work day and night shifts.
• Full NZ Driver's License held.

Responsibilities

• Load log vessels using a 20T digger fitted with a grapple.
• Work closely with crane operators and foremen to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Stack and stow logs with precision and efficiency inside vessel holds and on deck.
• Maintain strong awareness of safety, sequencing, and load stability.

Skills

Excavator experience

Team player

Safety conscious

Good communication

Education

Full New Zealand Driver's License

Tools

20T digger

Grapple attachment

Job description

What's on offer

• Competitive hourly rates from $50+, depending on experience
• Casual Positions available offering flexibility
• Ongoing training and development opportunities

About The Role

We currently have casual opportunities available at our Taranaki port operation for experienced Ships Digger Operators. In this role, you will operate a 20T excavator fitted with a log grapple, working within the vessel hold and on deck to safely and efficiently stow logs prior to export overseas. This is a highly skilled role requiring precision, situational awareness, and strong communication within a live port environment. Think of it as Tetris — but with a 20-tonne digger and logs up to 11 meters long.

Location: Taranaki Port

Status: Casual Positions available

Specific Responsibilities

• Load log vessels using a 20T digger fitted with a grapple
• Work closely with crane operators and foremen to ensure safe and efficient operations
• Stack and stow logs with precision and efficiency inside vessel holds and on deck
• Maintain strong awareness of safety, sequencing, and load stability

Who we're after

• Previous excavator grapple experience preferred
• A genuine team player with a positive, can-do attitude
• Full New Zealand Driver’s License
• Strong focus on safety and attention to detail
• Reliable, flexible, and comfortable working day and night shifts

About Us

Qube Ports NZ is a leading nationwide service provider, offering a comprehensive range of cargo logistics, stevedoring, marshalling, transportation, warehousing, and IT solutions. Our commitment to excellence supports New Zealand exporters in competing effectively on the global stage.

You must pass a pre-employment medical and drug test and must be a citizen of New Zealand. You will also need to pass a pre-employment ACC & MOJ Criminal History Check.

Applications close on 25th October.