Civil Drainage Carpenter: Build Underground Structures

Day‑to‑Day - Civil Carpenter

A drainage civil carpenter spends their day building the structures that make underground services work, including formwork for manholes, chambers, headwalls, culverts, sumps, and catch pits. They manage detailed elements such as corbels, pipe penetrations, step‑outs, and internal transitions, preparing and boxing concrete surrounds, aprons, thrust blocks, and benches, then stripping and finishing these structures to specification.

On site they work closely with the drainage crew to prepare trenches, align structures to invert levels, support pipe installations, and ensure everything is built accurately and safely. The role involves moving materials, maintaining site safety, setting up barriers and signage, and assisting wherever extra support is needed, keeping the job moving and the team productive.

As part of the General Contracting team, the landscape labourer/carpenter shapes outdoor spaces and delivers residential projects from the ground up. Responsibilities include building retaining walls, decks, steps, garden structures, and hardscaping features, as well as doing landscaping tasks such as planting, mulching, levelling, and site clean‑ups.

The role also involves constructing paths, edging, concrete pads, and outdoor living areas, assisting with tree felling and removals, and supporting the crew with digging, setting out, and basic carpentry. Operating machinery such as loaders, diggers, skid steers, or small plant gives a tangible advantage by speeding up site prep, trenching, and material handling.

• Experience in the construction industry or something similar
• A current, clean Class 2 Licence or a commitment to obtain one within the first 3 months
• Experience with excavators, loaders, and compaction equipment is an advantage
• A flexible, adaptable approach with a strong work ethic
• Efficient and forward‑thinking
• A safety‑first mindset
• Be an NZ Citizen, Resident, or hold a current NZ Work Visa

• Holding a WTR endorsement
• Experience operating other machinery

• Great hourly rate – above the national average
• Performance‑based incentives
• Health insurance after 9 months (covers pre‑existing conditions)
• Consistent hours – typically 50 per week
• Monday to Friday work – weekends off
• Extensive training and upskilling opportunities
• Real chances for career development and progression
• Uniform and PPE supplied
• ‘Refer a Friend’ bonus
• Immigration NZ accredited employer

Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.