Civil Foreman / Excavator Operator

placeChristchurch calendar_month 

Complete Landscapes and Civil is expanding and we are seeking an experienced Civil Foreman / Excavator Operator to join our growing team in Canterbury. We specialise in civil construction, earthworks, drainage, landscaping, and infrastructure upgrades across residential, commercial, and subdivision projects.

With a strong pipeline of work heading into 2026, we are looking for a motivated and highly skilled operator who can lead onsite teams, deliver high-quality workmanship, and contribute to the continued growth of our civil division.

About the Role

This is a hands-on leadership position involving both site supervision and excavator operation. You will be working with modern machinery ranging from 5-tonne and upwards, completing earthworks, trenching, foundation preparation, drainage installations, and general civil construction tasks.

You will play a key role in delivering projects safely, efficiently, and to a high standard, while overseeing crews and coordinating with project managers and subcontractors.

Core Requirements
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience operating excavators in civil construction.
  • Proven experience operating diggers 5T and above.
  • Ability to read and interpret site plans, levels, and construction drawings.
  • Experience using GPS machine control preferred.
  • Strong leadership skills and ability to manage and mentor small crews.
  • Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
  • High level of care, attention to detail, and pride in workmanship.
  • Understanding of civil construction processes, safety requirements, and quality standards.
  • Ability to work safely around services, traffic, and other site hazards.
Licences & Endorsements (Advantageous)
  • Wheels, Tracks & Rollers (WTR) endorsements
  • Class 2 or Class 4 HT licence
  • Class 5 licence (bonus but not required)
  • Traffic management experience (TTM/STMS) or willingness to upskill
Desired Attributes
  • Experience leading teams on civil construction or residential earthworks projects.
  • Strong forward-planning and resource-management capability.
  • Reliable, self-motivated, and able to work unsupervised when required.
  • Knowledge of drainage, roading, horizontal infrastructure, and pavement construction is an advantage.
What We Offer
  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Supportive and growing team environment
  • Opportunities for further training, upskilling, and career development
  • Variety of interesting and challenging civil projects across Canterbury

Apply Now

If you’re an experienced Civil Foreman / Excavator Operator looking for your next opportunity, we would love to hear from you.

For further information, please contact: Sam Charles – Civil Director

  • 027 330 1243
placeChristchurch
is simple: experienced professionals, direct communication, no unnecessary layers, and a focus on quality, safety, and cost efficiency. The Opportunity We’re looking for a motivated Excavator Operator to join our civil contracting team. You’ll work...
thumb_up_altRecommended

Excavator Operators Wanted

apartmentFranklin Smith LimitedplaceChristchurch
Description: We are looking for multiple experienced Excavator Operators who have a good attitude towards work and great references. You will be completing various earthmoving duties including operating plant to excavate earth, ore, and rock, break...
placeChristchurch
Excavator Operator – Night Shift Location: Christchurch Hours: 10–12 hour shifts, 4 nights per week Contract: 6-month fixed term (starting 12 January 2026) We’re after a skilled Excavator Operator to join a specialist night shift project...