Mobile Crane Operator

Fluid Recruitment Limited; Hastings; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction company is seeking a skilled Mobile Crane Operator for a major construction project in Hastings. This fixed-term role will run from January to August 2026 and offers a minimum of 40 hours per week with overtime rates available. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of crane operation experience, a solid understanding of safe lifting practices, and the ability to pass necessary pre-employment checks. Join a family-owned business committed to safety and excellent service.

Benefits

Guaranteed minimum 40 hours per week

Overtime rates available

Work with an industry leader in construction

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ crane operation experience in construction/infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of NZ health & safety regulations.
• Ability to pass drug & alcohol testing and pre-employment medical.

Responsibilities

• Operate mobile cranes in accordance with lift plans and site requirements.
• Inspect and maintain lifting equipment; report defects promptly.
• Perform routine crane maintenance and safety checks.

Skills

Crane operation experience

Understanding of safe lifting practices

Teamwork skills

Situational awareness

Education

Unit Standards in crane operation (e.g., US 3795, 3789)

New Zealand Certificate in Crane Operation (Level 3 or 4)

Full NZ Driver’s License with appropriate endorsements

Job description

We are seeking a skilled and safety‑focused Mobile Crane Operator for a major construction project. This is a fixed‑term role from mid‑January 2026 to August 2026.

Smith Crane and Construction is a family‑owned business with over 30 years of experience, offering exceptional service across crane hire, civil construction (including marine civil and pre‑cast manufacturing), transportation and wind energy installation and maintenance. We pride ourselves on our team, safety first, and continuing our family tradition of excellent customer focus and job execution.

About the Role

You will safely and efficiently operate mobile cranes to lift, move and position loads on site. You'll work closely with site supervisors, riggers and the project team to deliver outcomes on time and to budget, while upholding our commitment to health and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate mobile cranes in accordance with lift plans and site requirements.
• Assist with crane mobilisation, set‑up and demobilisation.
• Inspect and maintain lifting equipment; report defects promptly.
• Communicate clearly with team members during lifting operations.
• Perform routine crane maintenance and safety checks.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and health & safety regulations.
• Represent Smith Crane & Construction professionally at all times.

What We’re Looking For

• Unit Standards in crane operation (e.g., US 3795, 3789) or equivalent Australian qualifications (with NZQA equivalency).
• New Zealand Certificate in Crane Operation (Level 3 or 4) – desirable.
• Full NZ Driver’s License with appropriate endorsements (Class 2 or 4, WTR) or valid Australian heavy vehicle licence (with ability to transfer).
• Minimum 2 years’ crane operation experience in construction/infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of safe lifting practices and NZ health & safety regulations.
• Ability to pass a drug & alcohol test and pre‑employment medical.
• Excellent situational awareness, decision‑making, and teamwork skills.
• Physically fit and able to work in varied environments.

What We Offer

• Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week.
• Work with an industry leader in construction and heavy lifting.
• Overtime rates available.

How to Apply

Please apply using the ‘Quick apply’ button now.

Successful candidates will be subject to pre‑employment drug and alcohol testing, a pre‑employment medical, and police vetting. You must also have the right to legally live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this position. Applications will be assessed as they are received.

Application Questions

• How many years' experience do you have as a Mobile Crane Operator?
• Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand?
• Are you willing to undergo a pre‑employment medical check?
• Do you have a current New Zealand driver's licence?
• Are you willing to undergo pre‑employment drug and alcohol screening?