Drainlayer/Machine Operator - Dunedin
Drainlayer / Machine Operator – Dunedin McConnell Dowell is looking for an experienced and reliable Drainlayer / Machine Operator to join our Dunedin team. This hands-on role is ideal for someone who brings strong civil construction skills, operates plant confidently, and takes pride in delivering high-quality underground services work.
About the Role
You’ll be part of a crew delivering drainage, utilities, and civil works across our Dunedin projects. The role combines drainlaying tasks with operating machinery such as excavators, rollers, and other plant as required. You’ll work closely with site supervisors and engineers to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and to specification.
Key Responsibilities- Install and maintain stormwater, wastewater, and service drainage systems.
- Operate machinery safely and competently (excavators, rollers, etc.)
- Assist with trenching, pipe installation, bedding, backfilling and compaction.
- Read and interpret plans and follow production targets.
- Contribute to daily pre-starts, safety checks, and toolbox talks.
- Maintain plant and equipment to a high standard.
- Work collaboratively with the wider construction team to meet programme expectations.
- Proven experience in drainlaying and civil construction.
- Relevant machine operating experience with appropriate WTR endorsements.
- A strong understanding of safety standards and worksite practices.
- Ability to work well in a team and follow instructions from supervisors.
- Good communication skills and a proactive, reliable work ethic.
- A drainlaying qualification.
McConnell Dowell – Creative Construction
Our purpose is Providing a Better Life. We do that through delivering projects that connect, support and sustain communities, and through providing career opportunities that challenge, reward and grow our people.
From remote major resources and energy projects to city-shaping transport and water infrastructure, we have constructed thousands of high-quality, complex projects for our customers and communities over more than 60 years, in Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia.
Why join us?The work you’ll do will have a tangible positive impact on people’s lives, including yours. The diversity of our projects, roles and locations means greater development opportunities. We invest in our people to set and reach personal and professional goals and we have some of the best mentoring minds in the business to help you do that.
Because when you grow, we all grow.
McConnell Dowell actively seeks and celebrates diversity, inclusion, and individuality. In a culture low on ego and high on support, we encourage everyone to make an impact. We're big enough to take on community-shaping projects, but agile enough for you to have an influence on how we do things.
So, join us, be you, and help us create better together.Apply now!
We are an equal opportunity employer. People of all ages, abilities, sexual orientation, gender identities and Torres Strait Islanders are strongly encouraged to apply.
Please note all successful applicants must hold valid work rights for New Zealand and/or Pacific Islands and pass a satisfactory pre-employment medical which includes drug and alcohol checks.
This role is being sourced through McConnell Dowell directly and not accepting applications via external recruitment agencies.