Posted 01 August, 2026
Experienced Drainlayer / Drainage Foreman
323 Recruitment
Tauranga, BOP, NZ
Full Time
Reference: e3b528c02b7db95c
Job Description
Experienced Drainlayer / Drainage Foreman Experienced Drainlayer / Drainage Foreman $36–$45 per hour + Ute + tools of the trade Looking for a fresh start in Tauranga? This is an opportunity to join a well-established main civil contractor delivering significant infrastructure projects across Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty. With a strong forward workload, the business is looking for an experienced Drainlayer or Drainage Foreman who can take ownership on site, lead from the front and consistently deliver quality work. Tauranga offers the chance to enjoy a warmer climate, coastal lifestyle and a great balance between work and life. Whether you are already based in the Bay of Plenty or considering making a move, this is a strong long-term opportunity with a contractor that values experience and looks after its people. The role You will be working across three waters, subdivision and civil infrastructure projects, with a strong focus on deep drainage, sewer, stormwater and potable water installations. This is a hands-on position where you will work in the trench alongside the crew while also helping coordinate daily activities, maintain quality standards and keep the job progressing safely and efficiently. Depending on your experience, you may also take responsibility for leading a three-to-four-person drainage crew. Key responsibilities Installing sewer, stormwater, subsoil drainage and potable water pipelines Working in deep drainage environments involving trench shields, dewatering and benching Reading construction drawings and setting out pipelines from survey pegs Setting laser levels, dumpy levels, grades and pipe inverts Completing trenching, bedding, pipe laying, backfilling and compaction Carrying out testing, quality assurance checks and construction documentation Setting out and installing concrete manholes, including excavation, levelling, benching, finishing and corbelling Working with concrete, PE and PVC pipe systems Leading and supporting a small drainage crew Liaising with supervisors, engineers, inspectors and other site personnel Assisting with general civil, earthworks or roading activities when required Maintaining high health, safety, environmental and workmanship standards What we are looking for You will ideally have: Strong experience across sewer, stormwater and water-reticulation projects Proven experience working in deep drainage environments The ability to read plans, calculate levels and set out drainage works Practical experience installing concrete manholes Experience with PE, PVC and concrete pipe systems The ability to work independently and lead a small crew A minimum full Class 1 driver licence New Zealand civil construction experience preferred WTR endorsements and machinery operating experience advantageous Drainlaying registration or certification Most importantly, you will be a reliable self-starter with a practical attitude. You will be comfortable getting into the trench, helping the crew and taking responsibility for completing the work properly. What is on offer $36–$45 per hour , depending on experience Top rates available for certifying Drainlayers with strong leadership capability and more than 10 years’ industry experience Tool-of-trade vehicle Phone and tools required for the role Stable, long-term work with a strong project pipeline Exposure to a variety of three waters and civil infrastructure projects Opportunities to progress into senior foreman and site‑leadership positions Supportive and experienced team environment The opportunity to build a long‑term career in Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty Ready for a change? This position would suit an experienced Drainlayer who wants to step into more responsibility, or an established Drainage Foreman looking for a well-paid, long-term role with a respected main contractor. #J-18808-Ljbffr