Civil Working Foreman | Grader & Excavator

About The Role

‍We are currently seeking an experienced Civil Working Foreman to lead crews on civil construction projects across Canterbury and Christchurch. This is a hands-on leadership role suited to an experienced operator who is confident running crews while operating graders and excavators on site.

This role is ideal for an all-round civil operator with strong experience across roading, earthworks, drainage, and subdivision projects.

‍What’s In It For You

• Opportunity to lead crews on major civil projects
• Ongoing work across Canterbury
• Competitive pay based on experience
• Supportive and professional team environment
• Work with modern plant and equipment

What You Will Be Doing

• Lead and supervise civil crews on site
• Operate graders for pavement construction, sub-grade preparation, and final trim
• Operate excavators for trenching, earthworks, and drainage works
• Coordinate daily tasks and manage work schedules
• Direct subcontractors and support site teams
• Read and interpret construction drawings and survey set-out
• Ensure work is completed safely and to a high standard
• Conduct toolbox meetings and daily pre-starts
• Monitor site safety and ensure compliance with procedures
• Manage materials, plant, and equipment requirements
• Carry out daily machine checks, maintenance, and minor repairs

What We Require

• 5–10+ years’ experience in civil construction
• Strong experience operating graders and excavators (5T – 35T+)
• Proven experience in pavement construction and final trim work
• Experience with earthworks, drainage, and subdivision projects
• Ability to lead and mentor small civil crews
• Strong understanding of site safety procedures
• Ability to read plans, drawings, and survey markers
• Reliable with strong communication and leadership skills
• Valid Site Safe or Construct Safe – we can assist with this
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test

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ALL APPLICANTS MUST HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND
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‍Why Choose Max People?

‍Max People, with over 15 years of experience, is a trailblazer in providing customised labour-hire solutions to leading construction firms throughout New Zealand. We’ve since expanded our reach into the agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics sectors. Our core values of Passion, Empathy, Optimism, Professionalism, Loyalty, and Empowerment drive everything we do. Begin your career journey with Max People today!