Telehandler Operator

JobSpace; Wellington; On-site; NZD 39,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

JobSpace in Wellington is seeking an experienced telehandler operator to move, lift, and position materials on an active construction site. The role involves close coordination with site Supervisors and ground crews to ensure safe, efficient delivery of materials, with focus on accuracy and clear communication.

Applicants should have telehandler certification, a valid site access license, and a Site Safe or safety passport.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating telehandlers on construction sites.
• Ability to interpret load charts and lifting capacities.
• Experience working safely in busy or confined site environments.
• Strong communication to coordinate with site teams.
• Reliability and punctuality; able to adapt to changing priorities.
• Physically fit for outdoor work in varying conditions.

Responsibilities

• Operate telehandlers to lift, move, and place materials as directed.
• Load and unload materials from trucks and storage areas with precision.
• Position loads accurately in confined site conditions.
• Interpret and apply load charts, weight limits, and stability guidelines.
• Conduct pre-start checks and basic daily maintenance of the telehandler.
• Coordinate movements with site supervisors and ground personnel using clear signals.
• Follow all site safety procedures and traffic management plans.
• Report defects, hazards, or incidents promptly to the supervisor.

Skills

Telehandler operation

Site safety awareness

Clear communication

Load chart interpretation

Education

Telehandler certification

Site Safe or safety passport

Job description

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You will be responsible for operating telescopic handlers to move, lift, and position materials across an active construction site.

Step into a key role on a busy Wellington construction site where your telehandler expertise keeps projects moving safely and on schedule. This temporary opportunity is ideal for an experienced operator who thrives in fast-paced, confined environments and takes pride in precision handling and safe operations.

About the Role:

You will be responsible for operating telescopic handlers to move, lift, and position materials across an active construction site.

Working closely with site supervisors and ground crews, you’ll ensure materials are delivered safely and efficiently to where they’re needed most.

Your focus on accuracy, safety, and clear communication will directly support daily site productivity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate telescopic handlers (telehandlers) to lift, move, and place materials as directed.
• Load and unload materials from trucks, storage areas, and work zones with precision.
• Position loads accurately in tight, confined, or congested site conditions.
• Interpret and apply load charts, weight limits, and stability guidelines for each lift.
• Conduct pre-start checks and basic daily maintenance of the telehandler.
• Co-ordinate movements with site supervisors and ground personnel using clear communication and signals.
• Follow all site safety procedures, traffic management plans, and exclusion zones.
• Report any defects, hazards, or incidents promptly to the appropriate supervisor.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience operating telehandlers on construction or similar sites.
• Strong ability to interpret load charts, weight limits, and lifting capacities.
• Demonstrated competence working safely in confined or busy site environments.
• Solid understanding of site safety procedures and safe work practices.
• Confident communication skills to coordinate movements with site teams.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to adapt to changing site priorities.
• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in varying conditions.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience working on multi-storey or complex construction projects.
• Familiarity with other site plant or machinery.
• Previous exposure to traffic management or logistics coordination on construction sites.

Qualifications:

• Current telehandler or relevant plant operator certification/ticket.
• Valid driver’s licence appropriate for site access and local requirements.
• Site Safe or equivalent construction safety passport (preferred).
• Any additional machinery or high-risk work licences (advantageous).

If you’re a skilled telehandler operator ready to step into a busy Wellington project and make an immediate impact,