Excavator Operator, Christchurch
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RobLawMax Recruitment

Excavator Operator

  • Posted 6d ago
  • On Site
  • Full Time

Christchurch

Job Description

We have multiple Excavator Operator positions across civil, drainage, roading infrastructure.


With a strong forward workload our clients are requiring skilled professionals who can bring their expertise and commitment to their dynamic team.


Work with a long standing crew of experienced Operators, and Civil Fore-people who pride themselves in running a supportive and cooperative work environment.


What we offer:


  • Competitive payrates
  • Potential for long term work
  • Temp to Permanent opportunities
  • Future training and development
  • Full PPE provided
  • A workplace where no two days are the same


Some of your tasks may include:


  • Full Class 1 drivers licence (class 2/4 preferred)
  • Current WTR endorsements
  • Trenching, back filling and loading trucks
  • Competent operator with experience in either drainage, roading, or earthworks
  • Excavating inside trench shields and dewatering experience
  • Installing concrete or PVC pipe (using attachments)
  • Confident with final trim or foundation prep
  • Reliable team member whos willing to get stuck in, jump out of a machine and help on the ground
  • Strong safety and quality focus


If youre looking for a new challenge, now is the time to get in touch with Tanisha Lethaby from RobLawMax Recruitment or call me for a confidential chat.


Email: TanishaL@roblawmax.co.nz


Mobile: 0273331893


RobLawMax specialises in recruitment across Construction, Infrastructure, Engineering, Manufacturing, Energy and Industrial sectors. As specialists, our consultants are equipped with industry-specific knowledge, extensive networks, and an empathy and understanding of the recruitment process within infrastructure construction. We are proud to announce that we have recently achieved ISO9001 accreditation for our Quality Management System (QMS), and ISO450001 accreditation for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) management systems.

Desired Hard Skills

  • Back filling
  • Excavating
  • Full Class 1 drivers licence
  • Loading trucks
  • Trenching

Desired Soft Skills

  • Quality focus
  • Reliable team member
  • Strong safety focus

Benefits & Perks

  • 📈 Professional Development
  • 🏎 Competitive Salary

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Excavator Operator Jobs

Excavator operators in New Zealand play a vital role in shaping the landscape — from subdivisions and drainage to major civil and commercial builds. Demand remains strong across Canterbury, Auckland, and other fast-growing regions, with work spanning roading, infrastructure, residential development, and utilities. Employers are looking for operators who can handle a range of diggers with precision, work safely around live services, and contribute to a positive on-site culture.

Day-to-day work

Most excavator operators spend their days on civil and construction sites, completing trenching, drainage, and earthworks. You’ll prep sites for asphalt, concrete, or foundations, carry out bulk and final trim work, and operate under strict health and safety standards. Many roles also involve assisting on the ground, checking levels, or driving trucks between tasks — variety is part of the job.

Career progression

Careers as an excavator operator often start with entry-level site work or labouring before moving into machine operation. With experience and licences such as WTR and Class 2 or 4, operators can progress to leading hand, site foreman, or plant supervisor positions. Some move into civil construction management, project coordination, or specialist drainage and earthworks roles within larger infrastructure firms.

Skills employers look for

Employers value proven operating experience, particularly on diggers up to 10 tonnes and in tight-access sites. Key technical skills include trenching, final trim, and safe work around live services. Communication, teamwork, and reliability are just as important. A solid understanding of on-site health and safety, a clean drug screen, and current Site Safe and WTR endorsements are standard expectations.

Find your next role

Ready to build your career in civil construction? Explore current Excavator Operator jobs on ZEIL and find opportunities that match your experience, location, and goals.