Drainage Operator

Our Higgins Green Team in Mount Maunganui is on the lookout for a Drainage Operator to support our Port operations, delivering safe, high quality work across drainage and general maintenance activities.

This is a hands on role where you’ll operate plant and muck in on the ground as required. You’ll carry out drainage works across the Port, including trenching and cesspit/manhole installs and repairs, while working safely with a spotter/labourer. You’ll also support general maintenance tasks such as potholes, minor asphalt, drainage reinstatements, and environmental works – this is not an operator only role.

• Full Class 2 + WTR is essential (Class 4 would be an advantage)
• Confident driving manual trucks
• Proven, hands on plant operating experience (not just tickets)
• Strong drainage experience and a practical, solutions focused approach
• Ability to work safely, follow procedures, and look out for your mates
• A flexible attitude and willingness to pitch in where needed
• Ability to work occasional night shifts and weekend work when required

• Competitive hourly rate + guaranteed 40 hours per week
• Upskill and gain further licences if required
• Supportive team that treats each other like whānau
• Access to educational funds for you and your children
• Funding for school holiday programmes and tutoring for your children
• Z fuel discounts including a monthly free pie and coffee
• Market-leading parental leave policy
• Brand new PPE gear (that’s your own personal protective equipment)

Higgins is a leading construction and infrastructure company, proudly building and maintaining roads, bridges, and civil projects that connect communities across New Zealand. With a strong focus on safety, quality, and sustainability, we deliver projects that make a real difference. At Higgins, you’ll join a team that values collaboration, innovation, and career growth – because we believe our people are the foundation of our success.

Higgins is committed to a drug-free workplace. The successful applicant will be required to pass pre-employment drug and alcohol testing along with a health check – you’ll need to be fit for work!

We are actively looking to fill this role and encourage your early application. Applications are reviewed regularly, and we reserve the right to remove the advertisement before the advertised closing date.

Research shows that females and minority groups don’t always apply for roles unless they match 100% of the requirements. So, if this role is of interest but you feel you don’t quite fit, we encourage you to apply anyway. We are enriched by many nationalities, languages, religions, customs, and lifestyles. We are proud of our diversity and see it as one of the things that make us better together.