Specialist Operator: Asphalt Paving

Higgins; Bay of Plenty; On-site; NZD 36,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

KiwiSaver 4%

Upskill licenses

Retail discounts

Fuel discounts

Pie and coffee

Job summary

Higgins is seeking a Specialist Operator to join the asphalt surfacing crew in Mount Maunganui, NZ. You will operate paving plant and apply your technical knowledge to deliver a high-quality finish.

Work with the crew to respond to site conditions and support safe, efficient paving operations. Responsibilities include operating pavers, screeds, MTVs and rollers, performing checks, following paving plans, and ensuring temperature control and compaction.

Qualifications

• Class 1 driver licence is required.
• Endorsements for Wheels, Tracks and Rollers are required.
• Competent in operating paver, screed or MTV.
• Experience with asphalt plant and finishing operations.
• Sound knowledge of asphalt behaviour, temperature management and paving methods.
• Able to interpret paving plans, drawings and quality specs.
• Strong communication and focus on safe work practices.

Responsibilities

• Operate pavers, screeds, MTVs, rollers and related plant.
• Perform pre-start, operational and post-operation checks.
• Adhere to paving plans, rolling patterns, target depths and temp requirements.
• Monitor feed, mat quality, joints, levels and compaction; adjust as needed.
• Identify faults or constraints and help resolve issues on site.
• Share technical knowledge with crew and provide guidance.

Skills

Class 1 licence

Wheels endorsement

Rollers endorsement

Paver operation

Screed operation

MTV operation

ASPHALT knowhow

Plans interpretation

Safety focus

Job description

Description

We’re looking for a Specialist Operator to join our asphalt surfacing crew in Mount Maunganui. In this role, you’ll operate paving plant and use your technical knowledge to deliver a consistent, high-quality finish. You’ll work closely with the wider crew, respond to changing site conditions and support safe, efficient paving operations.

• Operate pavers, screeds, material transfer vehicles, rollers and associated plant
• Complete pre-start, operational and post-operation equipment checks
• Work to paving plans, rolling patterns, target depths and temperature requirements
• Monitor asphalt feed, mat quality, joints, levels, crossfalls and compaction
• Identify plant faults, site constraints and quality issues, then help resolve them
• Share technical knowledge and provide practical guidance to other crew members

About You

• Class 1 driver licence and Wheels, Tracks and Rollers endorsements
• Competency operating a paver, screed or material transfer vehicle
• Experience operating specialist plant in an asphalt surfacing environment
• Sound knowledge of asphalt behaviour, temperature management and paving methods
• Ability to interpret paving plans, drawings, specifications and quality requirements
• Clear communication, practical problem-solving skills and a strong focus on safe work

Why Join Us

• Competitive hourly rate
• Permanent role with guaranteed 40 hours per week
• KiwiSaver employer contribution matched up to 4%
• Opportunity to upskill and gain further licenses
• Retail discounts for you and your family to enjoy
• Z fuel discounts including a monthly free pie and coffee

Higgins is a leading construction and infrastructure company, proudly building and maintaining roads, bridges, and civil projects that connect communities across New Zealand. With a strong focus on safety, quality, and sustainability, we deliver projects that make a real difference. At Higgins, you’ll join a team that values collaboration, innovation, and career growth – because we believe our people are the foundation of our success.

Higgins is committed to a drug‑free workplace. The successful applicant will be required to pass pre‑employment drug and alcohol testing along with a health check – you’ll need to be fit for work!

We're with you on the road ahead - Ko tatou kei a koe i te huarahi kei mua

Research shows that females and minority groups don’t always apply for roles unless they match 100% of the requirements. So, if this role is of interest but you feel you don’t quite fit, we encourage you to apply anyway. We are enriched by many nationalities, languages, religions, customs, and lifestyles. We are proud of our diversity and see it as one of the things that make us better together.