Excavator operator wanted in New Zealand 2k26

Location: Various sites across New Zealand (Auckland, Canterbury, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Otago regions)
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent (with potential for fixed-term or project-based roles)
Visa Support: Accredited Employer Work Visa support available for the right overseas candidates.

Company Overview

About TerraFirm Civil Ltd
TerraFirm Civil is a leading and well-respected civil construction and earthworks company operating across New Zealand. With over 25 years of experience, we specialize in major infrastructure projects, including roading, subdivisions, drainage, land development, and commercial site works. Our commitment to safety, quality, innovation, and environmental sustainability has earned us a strong reputation and long-term partnerships with key clients, including local councils, government agencies (Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency), and private developers.

We invest in our people and technology, providing a supportive team environment where skill development and career progression are actively encouraged. At TerraFirm, we pride ourselves on delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the highest standards, contributing to building a better New Zealand.

Job Details

Purpose of the Role:
To operate excavators (predominantly 13-tonne to 30-tonne) safely, efficiently, and productively on a variety of civil construction sites. The operator will be responsible for executing detailed plans to achieve accurate earthworks, trenching, and material handling, ensuring work meets project specifications and timeframes.

Full job description

SUPER POWER EARTHMOVING LIMITED is currently looking for 3 excavator operator to join us:

• Perform daily maintenance and safety checks of equipment.
• Preparing and postioning plant for operation on site.
• Operate the machine and other heavy equipment in a safe and approprite manner.
• Selecting, fitting and removing attachments such as buckets, scoops, shovel blades, rock breaking hammers, winches and blades.
• Work with ground personnel.
• Operating controls to excavate, break, drill, level, compact, gouge out, move,load and spread earth, rock, rubble, soil and other materials.
• Working from drawings, markers and verbal instructions.
• Servicing, lubricating, c;leaning and refueling plant and performing minor adjustments and reparis.
• Take othe relevant duties as required.

Pay: hourly rate $25 to $32

Key Equipment:

• Excavators (13T – 30T range)
• Experience with GPS/GNSS machine control systems (e.g., Leica, Trimble) is highly desirable.
• May also involve operating other earthmoving machinery (e.g., rollers, loaders) as required.

Remuneration & Benefits:

• Competitive Hourly Rate: NZD $32 – $45 per hour, depending on experience, tickets, and machine control proficiency.
• Guanteed Minimum Hours: 40-50 hours per week, with overtime available on many projects.
• Benefits Package:
  • Company vehicle or vehicle allowance (role-dependent).
  • Phone and tablet for digital work management.
  • Annual performance bonus and merit-based pay reviews.
  • Full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provided.
  • Comprehensive health insurance scheme after qualifying period.
  • Ongoing training and upskilling opportunities (including NZQA certifications).
  • Paid leave and statutory holidays.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

1. Safe & Efficient Machine Operation:

• Conduct pre-start checks (Dailies) and complete required documentation.
• Operate excavators with a high degree of skill for tasks including bulk earthworks, precise trenching for utilities, profiling batters, loading trucks, and placing materials.
• Utilize GPS machine control systems to achieve design levels and grades accurately.
• Always adhere to company Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies, site-specific plans (SSSP), and NZ legislation.

2. Worksite Contribution & Communication:

• Work collaboratively as part of a site crew, taking direction from the Foreman or Site Manager.
• Communicate effectively with ground workers, truck drivers, and surveyors using two-way radios.
• Assist with basic surveying set-up, string lines, and laser levels as needed.
• Participate in daily toolbox meetings (TBM) and contribute to a positive safety culture.

3. Maintenance & Care:

• Perform basic daily servicing and lubrication of the machine.
• Keep the excavator cabin and exterior clean.
• Report any mechanical faults or defects to the maintenance team promptly.

Qualifications & Experience Required

Essential:

• A minimum of 3-5 years of proven experience operating excavators in a civil construction environment.
• Current WTR (Wheels, Tracks, Rollers) licence or equivalent.
• Class 1 (Car) New Zealand Driver Licence (minimum); Class 2, 4, or WTR is a significant advantage.
• Strong understanding of civil construction processes and earthworks.
• Excellent safety awareness and a clean safety record.
• Reliable, punctual, and a strong team player with a positive “can-do” attitude.

Highly Desirable (Points of Difference):

• Experience with GPS/GNSS Machine Control – this is a key skill sought by NZ employers.
• Relevant NZQA qualifications (e.g., National Certificate in Civil Plant Operation).
• First Aid Certificate.
• Confined Spaces or EWP (Elevated Work Platform) tickets.
• Experience in road construction, subdivision development, or pipeline projects.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their CV/Resume and a Cover Letter via the TerraFirm Careers Portal.
In your cover letter, please detail:

1. Your specific excavator experience (machine sizes, types of projects).
2. Your experience with GPS machine control systems.
3. Your visa status and eligibility to work in New Zealand.

Application Deadline: Open until positions are filled.

TerraFirm Civil Ltd is an equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace. Pre-employment drug testing and medical checks are required. We value diversity in our workforce and encourage applications from all qualified individuals.