Excavator Operator

Excavator Operator

Contract Type:

Casual

Location:

Nelson - Nelson

Industry:

Civil Construction

Contact Name:

Monique Spiekstra

Contact Email:

monique@tech5.co.nz

Contact Phone:

0800 825 111

Date Published:

13-Jan-2026

About the role:
  • Join Tech 5 to get assigned to work with a well-established, award-winning civil construction firm with a strong regional presence and a proven track record in roading maintenance.
  • Work alongside a supportive team of positive people, operating well-maintained machinery and upholding excellent health and safety standards.
  • Contribute to maintenance and improvement of the roading network across the Top of the South, supporting government investment in critical infrastructure.
  • Flexible casual engagement aligned with this season's high workload
What you will do:
  • Operate excavators to perform civil maintenance tasks (grading, trenching, earthworks, utility relocations, compaction support, and related activities) in roading projects.
  • Read and interpret site plans, risk assessments, and traffic management plans; communicate effectively with crew and supervisors.
  • Conduct daily machine checks, routine maintenance, and fault reporting to keep the digger assigned to you in prime condition.
  • Adhere to health and safety protocols, promote safe work practices, and actively contribute to a positive safety culture.
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to achieve project milestones on time and to high standards.
 What we are looking for:
  • A full and clean Class 1 licence (minimum) with WTR endorsements
  • Proven experience operating excavators on civil construction sites, with a track record of reliability and quality workmanship.
  • Demonstrated commitment to safety, with a proactive approach to hazard identification and risk mitigation.
  • Ability to work as part of a team, follow instructions, and adapt to changing priorities on site.
  • A strong work ethic, punctuality and a positive attitude.
 If you don’t have Excavator Tickets or experience yet:
  • If you have a full Class 1 license and the motivation to start in this industry, we encourage you to apply. We’re open to discussions about pathways and early opportunities to help you get your foot in the door and build your experience up.
 What we offer:
  • A positive, team-focused work environment with well-maintained equipment and strong positive leadership.
  • Competitive rates with potential for longer-term opportunities if and as workload and client requirements evolve.
  • Access to support and training to hone and further your skills from us and on our client’s sites.
  • The chance to contribute to critical roading maintenance projects funded by local and central government.
 
How to apply:
  • Please submit your resume detailing relevant excavator experience and any tickets/certifications.
  • Include a brief note about your availability, your current location in the Top of the South, and why you’re excited about contributing to roading maintenance.
 
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. If you are ready to bring your dedication, teamwork and safety-first attitude to us and our selection of well-respected civil construction clients, we’d love to hear from you.
The ball is in your court. We want to represent you and help you achieve your career goals. You could be a Labourer wanting to become an Operator, or an Operator wanting to become a Foreman. We want to hear where you’ve come from and where you are headed.

If you feel you are the right person for the job, or would like further information, reply directly or call Monique or Daan during office hours for more information on  (03) 543 8106.

Please note that applicants for this position must have either NZ citizenship or a current, open, and valid NZ work permit, and currently be physically in New Zealand.

Tech 5 Recruitment 
is a New Zealand-owned and operated recruitment agency that works at the heart of New Zealand's industries to meet the recruitment needs of businesses nationwide. With a 30+ year history (operating previously as Tempz) in the Nelson region, we aim to be a trusted brand in the Tasman, Nelson and Marlborough district, continuing the proud history of many local businesses having grown over the years with our help. Lots, sometimes several generations, of people out of our local community have, at some stage in their careers, worked with us.

Our sound reputation rests on our careful placement and the high quality of the work provided by our temps. We have been successful in sourcing and placing temporary staff to clients from mainly the industrial, construction, factory and roading sectors, often also resulting in permanent outcomes for client and successful candidates too.

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