Foreperson/Drainlayer - Dunedin

About the Role:

Reporting to the Superintendent, the Foreperson / Drainlayer is responsible for leading drainage crews and ensuring all drainage works are completed safely, efficiently, and to specification. This hands-on leadership role combines site supervision, planning, and quality delivery while maintaining a strong focus on health, safety, and environmental compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise drainage crews to achieve programme, performance, and quality targets.
• Coordinate daily site activities, resources, and workforce requirements.
• Ensure all drainage works are completed in accordance with project specifications and industry best practice.
• Maintain plant, equipment, and tools to ensure operational readiness.
• Monitor productivity and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Promote and uphold a strong safety culture, ensuring compliance with all HS&E requirements.
• Liaise effectively with project teams, subcontractors, suppliers, and stakeholders.
• Mentor and develop team members to achieve high performance and quality outcomes.

About You

• Certified Drainlayer Licence.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in civil construction and drainage works.
• Proven experience leading and supervising drainage crews on civil infrastructure projects.
• WTR endorsements with demonstrated experience operating excavators, including trenching works.
• Strong understanding of drainage installation, construction methodologies, and quality requirements.
• Sound working knowledge of HS&E legislation and practical implementation on site.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to motivate and engage teams.
• Strong planning, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• A proactive attitude with exceptional energy and commitment to delivering results.

What's on Offer:

We offer a supportive team culture that encourages forward-thinking, innovation, and our passion for making great ideas work.

• Competitive remuneration package including medical insurance and 6% Employer KiwiSaver contribution (eligibility applies).
• Full-time permanent position on diverse and challenging civil infrastructure projects.
• Opportunity to lead experienced crews and make a real impact on project delivery.
• Ongoing learning, development, and career progression opportunities.
• Be part of a team that values safety, quality, collaboration, and excellence.

About us

McConnell Dowell is the Creative Construction Company for customers who want to build better communities through safe, smart, efficient infrastructure. For over 60 years, we have built thousands of quality assets for our customers and communities across New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, Australia, and South East Asia.  
 
Our purpose of ‘providing a better life’ and values – Safety & Care; Honesty & Integrity; Customer Focus’ Performance Excellence and Working Together – are part of our identity and help to attract the best and brightest in our field. Our culture is founded on expertise, creativity, and progressive thinking.  

Note successful applicants will be required to pass satisfactory pre-employment medical, drug, alcohol and MOJ police checks.