Civil Working Foreman | Machine Operator

About The Role‍

You're the kind of person who doesn't just point at the job—you jump in and get it done.

We're looking for an experienced Civil Working Foreman to lead from the front on a variety of civil construction projects throughout Christchurch and Canterbury. This is a genuine working foreman role where you'll spend as much time in the cab as you do coordinating the day's work, supporting your crew, and keeping projects running smoothly.

From subdivisions and roading to earthworks and drainage, you'll be trusted to organise your team, operate graders and excavators, solve problems on the go, and maintain the high standards our client is known for. Every project is different, so you'll enjoy plenty of variety while working alongside experienced crews using modern, well-maintained equipment.

If you're the type of leader who earns respect by rolling up your sleeves—not just giving instructions—this is an opportunity to step into a long-term role where your experience will be valued and your input will make a real difference.

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‍What's In It For You‍

• Competitive pay that reflects your experience
• Long-term, full-time work with an established civil contractor
• Lead diverse projects across Canterbury
• Operate modern graders, excavators, and well-maintained plant
• Be part of a professional team that values practical leadership
• Immediate start for the right person

‍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 is a trusted New Zealand recruitment partner with 15+ years’ experience connecting great people with great workplaces. What started in construction has grown into one of the country’s leading labour-hire and recruitment providers across construction, civil, agriculture, dairy, manufacturing, and logistics.‍

‍When you join Max People, you’re backed by a team that lives its values: Passion, Empathy, Optimism, Professionalism, Loyalty, and Empowerment. We’re here to support your journey, champion your growth, and help you build a future you’re excited about.