Leading Hand - Drainage

Role Overview

Higgins Wellington is seeking a skilled and driven Leading Hand - Drainage to join the team. This is a practical, on-the-tools position that supports the Foreperson/Supervisor in coordinating day-to-day drainage work and delivering projects safely, to a high standard, and with good efficiency.

If you like working outdoors, bring solid drainage experience, and are comfortable guiding small crews, this could be a strong next step for you.

What You Will Do

• Help the Foreperson/Supervisor organise and oversee daily drainage operations.
• Guide and support operators, labourers, subcontractors, and labour-hire workers on site.
• Make sure drainage works such as pipelines, manholes, connections, and related structures are completed safely and according to specifications.
• Plan and coordinate plant, materials, and other resources so work continues smoothly.
• Keep communication clear with the crew, clients, and other site stakeholders.
• Work in line with Higgins’ safety, quality, and environmental expectations.
• Help build a positive team environment and assist in coaching less experienced team members.

What You Need

• Hands-on background in drainage, civil construction, or maintenance work.
• Previous experience leading or supervising small teams.
• Good working knowledge of drainage methods, materials, tools, and equipment.
• Experience using rotary lasers and pipe lasers would be an advantage.
• Drainlaying and/or water-related qualifications are beneficial.
• Willingness to help with other civil tasks when needed.
• Small-scale asphalt hand laying experience is helpful.
• Ability to interpret plans, understand levels, and follow site directions.
• Full Class 1 driver licence; Class 2 and WTR endorsements would be a bonus.
• Physically fit, dependable, and committed to working safely.
• Positive attitude and openness to flexible working hours when required.

Benefits and What Is Offered

• Competitive hourly pay.
• Permanent full-time employment with a guaranteed 40 hours each week.
• Employer KiwiSaver contribution matched up to 4%.
• Opportunities to build skills and gain additional licences or qualifications.
• Supportive team culture where people back each other up.
• Additional benefits for you and your family.
• Z fuel discounts, plus a free pie and coffee each month.

About the Company

Higgins is a major roading and civil infrastructure business in New Zealand with a strong growth trajectory and a people-first approach. The company offers a positive workplace, competitive pay, subsidised medical insurance, and subsidised education and training for employees and their dependants.

Additional Information

Higgins operates a drug-free workplace. The selected applicant will need to complete pre-employment drug and alcohol testing as well as a health assessment.

The company is encouraging early applications and reviews submissions on an ongoing basis, so the advertisement may be removed before the stated closing date.

Higgins also welcomes applications from people who may not meet every requirement. The organisation values diversity and inclusion across nationalities, languages, religions, customs, and lifestyles.

Ko tatou kei a koe i te huarahi kei mua — We are with you on the road ahead.