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Jul 3, 2026

Excavator Operator | Invercargill

Southland
$34 – $40 per hour depending on experience
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About The Role

Max People are recruiting for two experienced Excavator Operators to join a busy civil construction team working across drainage, earthworks, and subdivision projects in Invercargill.This is an excellent opportunity to work with one of New Zealand's leading Tier One civil contractors on a range of significant infrastructure projects. The successful candidates will operate excavators ranging from 5T through to 30T while supporting ground crews to deliver projects safely, efficiently, and to a high standard.

Positions Available: 2

What’s In It For You

  • $34 – $40 per hour depending on experience
  • Full-time hours with consistent workflow
  • Long-term project pipeline
  • Work with one of New Zealand's leading Tier One civil contractors
  • Modern machinery and equipment
  • Overtime opportunities available
  • Supportive and experienced team environment
  • Immediate start available

What You Will Be Doing

  • Operating excavators safely and efficiently
  • Digging trenches for stormwater and wastewater infrastructure
  • Trimming batters and final levels
  • Loading trucks and moving materials around site
  • Backfilling and compacting trenches
  • Assisting drainage crews as required
  • Carrying out daily machine inspections and basic maintenance checks
  • Supporting general civil construction activities when required
  • Maintaining safe work practices around underground services and site operations

What We Require

  • Minimum 3 years' excavator operating experience
  • Civil construction background
  • Experience operating excavators from 5T through to 30T
  • GPS machine control experience advantageous
  • Drainage experience preferred
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Strong awareness of underground services and safe excavation practices
  • Full Class 1 Driver Licence
  • WTR Endorsement (essential)
  • Class 2 Licence advantageous
  • Site Safe Passport preferred
  • First Aid Certificate advantageous
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test
  • Valid NZ working rights

If you're an experienced Excavator Operator looking for long-term project work with one of New Zealand's leading civil contractors, apply now.

ALL APPLICANTS MUST HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND


Why Choose Max People?

Max People is a trusted 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.