Drainlayer & Machine Operator – Invercargill

About the role

Join Downer’s construction team in Invercargill to operate machinery and deliver essential drainage work on civil and infrastructure projects across Southland. You will be part of a safety‑first crew, handling drainage installation, earthworks and machine operation on real‑world infrastructure projects.

Key responsibilities

• Operate construction machinery safely and efficiently on site.
• Install drainage systems according to project plans and specifications.
• Perform earthworks and trenching while protecting underground services.
• Read and interpret plans, levels and technical drawings.
• Maintain compliance with trench safety standards and safe work practices.

Required profile

• Proven experience in drainage installation and civil works.
• WTR endorsements and relevant machine‑operating experience.
• Ability to work from plans and levels.
• Knowledge of trench safety and underground services.
• Class 2 licence or higher is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of safe work practices.

Required skills

• Drainage installation
• Civil works
• WTR endorsement
• Machine operation
• Reading plans and levels
• Trench safety knowledge
• Underground services awareness
• Class 2 licence (or higher)
• Safe work practices

What we offer

• Stable, long‑term employment with one of New Zealand’s largest infrastructure firms.
• Free Marram health care benefits and discounted holiday homes.
• Competitive hourly rates aligned with experience.
• Opportunities for career progression and leadership development.
• Discounts on insurance, retail, gym memberships and more.
• $500 bonus for employee referrals.
• Safety equipment and clothing provided.