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Sep 25, 2026

Excavator Operator | Christchurch Subdivisions

Christchurch
, 
canterbury
$32–$35 per hour, depending on experience
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Max People are looking for an experienced Excavator Operator to join a busy civil crew working on subdivision projects across Christchurch.

This role is for an operator who is confident on the machine, understands civil work and can get on with the job without needing someone standing beside them all day.

You’ll be working across established subdivision projects, so being able to read plans, work to levels and understand what needs to happen next is important.

‍What You’ll Be Doing

  • Operating excavators across civil subdivision projects
  • Carrying out earthworks and excavation
  • Working on drainage and subdivision construction
  • Reading plans and drawings and working to levels
  • Working to specifications and required tolerances
  • Managing your own workload and prioritising tasks
  • Working around other machinery, crews and live work areas
  • Jumping out of the machine and helping the crew when required
  • Maintaining a safe and tidy work area

What We’re Looking For

  • Proven experience operating excavators on civil subdivision projects
  • Confident reading plans and drawings
  • Able to work accurately to levels and specifications
  • Strong understanding of civil earthworks, drainage and subdivision works
  • Capable of managing your own workload
  • Reliable and punctual
  • Good communication and strong work ethic
  • Safety-focused and switched on
  • WTR endorsements would be an advantage
  • Valid Site Safe or Construct Safe – we can assist with this
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment Drug test
  • Legal right to work in New Zealand

What’s In It For You?

  • $32–$35 per hour, depending on experience
  • Mid-October start
  • Ongoing work for the right operator
  • Consistent hours
  • Established Christchurch subdivision projects
  • Good team environment
  • The opportunity to put your skills to work without someone constantly asking, “How’s that dig going?”

If you’re an experienced Excavator Operator who can read drawings, work independently and knows how to get the job done properly, 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.

Apply for this Role

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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.