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Oct 7, 2026

Drainage Foreman | Canterbury

Christchurch
, 
canterbury
Salary / wages based on experience
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Max People are looking for a Drainage Foreman to lead a crew delivering stormwater, wastewater and water infrastructure projects throughout Canterbury.

This is a hands-on leadership role. You’ll be responsible for planning the work, coordinating your crew and plant, managing onsite risks and making sure the job is completed safely, efficiently and to the required standard.

You’ll be working on a range of challenging civil drainage projects, so we’re looking for someone who understands the work, can think ahead and knows how to keep a crew productive.

‍What You’ll Be Doing

‍Your work may include:

  • Leading and coordinating a drainage crew
  • Planning daily activities, materials, plant and site access
  • Deep drainage and excavation work
  • Working within trench shields and temporary works systems
  • Dewatering and groundwater management
  • Installing concrete and PVC pipelines
  • Installing manholes, chambers and other drainage structures
  • Working around existing and live services
  • Managing onsite risks and maintaining safe work practices
  • Completing quality assurance and site documentation
  • Keeping work progressing to programme and required standards
  • Supporting and mentoring crew members

About You

‍We’re interested in hearing from established Drainage Foremen as well as experienced people who are ready to progress into their first Foreman role.

You’ll ideally have:

  • Strong practical experience in civil drainage or three waters construction
  • Experience leading a crew or taking responsibility when the Foreman is unavailable
  • Ability to plan ahead and keep a crew productive
  • Experience with deep drainage, trench shields, dewatering and temporary works
  • Good understanding of levels, grades, plans and drainage construction requirements
  • Confidence making practical decisions and raising issues early
  • Strong focus on safety, quality and looking after your crew
  • Full Class 1 Driver Licence with WTR endorsements

The following would be advantageous, but aren’t essential if you have the right practical experience and leadership skills:

  • Drainlaying qualification
  • Christchurch City Council authorisations
  • Water reticulation qualifications
  • Class 2 Driver Licence

What’s In It For You?

  • Full-time, permanent position
  • Salary / wages based on experience
  • Work across a varied range of Canterbury three waters projects
  • Opportunity to lead an experienced crew
  • Great opportunity for an experienced operator to step into leadership
  • Hands-on role where your practical knowledge is valued
  • Opportunity to build your leadership and project delivery experience

If you’re an experienced drainage professional who is ready to lead from the front, whether you’re already a Foreman or ready to take that next step, we’d like to hear from you. Apply online today!

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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.

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Having an issue with applying? Email us at admin@maxpeople.co.nz and we will be happy to help you out.