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General Information

Job Type
Permanent
Category
Construction/Technical
Business
Higgins
Location
Waikato
Job Reference
43392
Posted Date
11-May-2026
Closing Date
10-Jun-2026

Description

Higgins Waikato has secured a new long term Integrated Delivery Contract with NZTA for the region, and we are looking for a Leading Hand to join the team.

Based at our Kopu Depot, you will support the Supervisor with day-to-day site activities while staying hands-on in the field. This role suits someone who enjoys leading by example, keeping work moving, and helping crews deliver safe, tidy and consistent outcomes. 

Key responsibilities include:
  • Support daily planning by preparing work areas, materials and plant
  • Carry out hands-on maintenance work across road and asset sites
  • Operate plant and machinery, including excavators, you are trained and authorised to use
  • Guide crew members on safe work methods and task expectations
  • Assist with toolbox talks, pre starts and basic site reporting
  • Respond to incidents and after-hours callouts when rostered

What You’ll Bring to the Role
We are looking for a capable operator who is ready to take on more responsibility while staying grounded in the work.

You will ideally bring:
  • At least 2 to 3 years’ experience in road construction or maintenance
  • Proven experience operating an excavator in a maintenance or civil environment
  • A full Class 1 licence, with higher classes and WTR an advantage
  • Sound knowledge of site safety, quality and environmental requirements
  • Confidence working with crews and supporting less experienced team members
  • Clear communication skills and the ability to stay organised on busy sites

Why join us:
  • Competitive hourly rate
  • Permanent role with guaranteed 40 hours per week
  • KiwiSaver employer contribution matched up to 4%
  • Opportunity to upskill and gain further licenses
  • Great benefits for you and your family to enjoy

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're with you on the road ahead - Ko tatou kei a koe i te huarahi kei mua

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.