A Career in Cranes starts here!
Smith Crane & Construction has a wide variety of career opportunities across all of our divisions for you. Join the Silver team today!
Current Vacancies
Check out our available vaccines below — click on each role to learn more.
Sound like you’d be a good fit? Apply here
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About the job:
Operate Hiab truck and transport equipment safely to and from site locations
Assist with lifting, loading, securing, and mobilisation/demobilisation tasks
Complete daily pre-start checks and report any faults or maintenance needs
Follow site lift plans and supervisor instructions to carry out safe, efficient lifts
Maintain clear communication with team members, clients, and supervisors
Supporting our fleet of mobile cranes in the Queenstown area
About you:
Valid FULL New Zealand Driver's Licence
Class 4 or 5 Heavy Transport Licence is Essential
HIAB Certifications (US1753, US16617)
Forklift F Endorsed Licence with OSH Certificate (preferred but not essential)
Physically fit
What we offer:
Competitive hourly rate + overtime opportunities
Full-time, stable work with a supportive team
Modern fleet and well-maintained gear
Ongoing training and development
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Join a leading force in New Zealand’s crane and construction industry.
We are seeking an experienced Automotive Electrician to support the electrical maintenance and repair of our extensive fleet of vehicles and machinery. Based in Christchurch, this role is essential in ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of our fleet—helping us meet critical service commitments to clients across the country.
About the Role
As our Automotive Electrician, you will be responsible for servicing, diagnosing, and repairing electrical systems across a variety of plant and machinery. You'll be working at heights, using diagnostic software, and maintaining detailed service records—all while upholding the highest standards in health and safety.
Key Responsibilities:
Service and repair automotive electrical systems for heavy machinery and plant.
Diagnose faults using advanced tools and software and carry out preventative maintenance.
Repair electronic systems including engine management, air-conditioning, gearboxes, instrument panels, and GPS/security systems.
Operate or test-drive machinery as required (subject to licensing).
Work at heights with appropriate safety equipment.
Maintain accurate maintenance records and contribute to improved servicing methods.
Communicate clearly and professionally with staff, clients, and contractors.
Support a positive and safe work culture across all operations
What We’re Offering:
Competitive remuneration with time and a half paid after 40 hours
Exposure to industry-leading machinery and a variety of challenging projects
Ongoing training and support for upskilling and certifications
Work alongside an experienced, down-to-earth team in a professional and supportive environment
What You’ll Bring:
Minimum 5+ years of hands-on experience as an Automotive Electrician, including heavy vehicle experience.
NZ Certificate (Level 4) in Automotive Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
Demonstrated experience with diagnostics tools, software, and systems.
Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and meet deadlines.
Strong attention to detail with a methodical and safety-conscious approach.
Ability to work at heights and in a physically demanding environment.
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Ready to take your mechanical career to the next level?
We’re looking for an experienced Heavy Diesel Mechanic to join our high-performing team. You’ll be working with cutting-edge equipment across a broad fleet of cranes and heavy plant, with real opportunities to be part of major infrastructure projects — both in New Zealand and overseas.What You’ll Be Doing:
Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic and low-voltage electrical faults across our fleet
Undertake breakdown callouts, routine servicing, rebuilds and preventative maintenance
Work with a diverse range of gear including crawler cranes, tower cranes, excavators, trucks, trailers and loaders
Support crane builds, mobilisation/demobilisation, and major overhauls
Use schematics, diagnostic tools and your technical expertise to deliver high-quality, efficient outcomes
What We’re Offering:
A modern, fully equipped service vehicle for work and commute use
Opportunities to work on major projects overseas — Antarctica, Australia, the Pacific and beyond
Competitive remuneration with time and a half paid after 40 hours
Exposure to industry-leading machinery and a variety of challenging projects
Ongoing training and support for upskilling and certifications
Work alongside an experienced, down-to-earth team in a professional and supportive environment
What You’ll Bring:
NZ trade qualification (Heavy Diesel or similar) with 3+ years’ post-trade experience
Solid background in servicing and repairing heavy plant or similar equipment
Strong fault-finding skills in mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems
Self-motivated, reliable, and able to work independently or as part of a team
Full NZ driver’s licence (Class 2- 5 and WTR endorsements are a bonus)
This role is based in Otaki - Wellington and will require travel within the Wellington Manawatu regions.
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We’re looking for a skilled and experienced Tower Crane Operator who’s confident operating a range of cranes on dynamic construction sites. You’ll need solid industry experience, a commitment to safe lifting practices, and the ability to work closely with riggers, dogmen, and site teams. If you’re reliable, professional, and want to join a respected company with ongoing projects and a great team culture – we’d love to hear from you.
What You'll Be Doing (Key tasks and responsibilities)
Operate cranes safely and efficiently on diverse sites
Assist with crane mobilisation, demobilisation, and rigging
Carry out lifts following site plans and supervisor instructions
Perform daily maintenance checks and report defects
Be part of a positive safety culture where your skills matter
What We’re Looking For
You’ll thrive in this role if you have:
At least 2 years’ crane operation experience (construction/infrastructure)
NZQA Unit Standards in crane operation (or equivalent qualifications)
Class 2 or 4 licence with endorsements
A calm, safety-first attitude and solid teamwork skills
Clear pre-employment drug & alcohol test
What We Offer
Guaranteed minimum 40 hours per week plus overtime opportunities
A supportive and down-to-earth team environment
Opportunities for ongoing training and career development
Stable, long-term role with exciting projects
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We’re looking for a competent and experienced Rigger Dogman who’s confident working with lift plans, rigging gear, and crane operations. You’ll need to have solid industry experience, a strong focus on safety, and the ability to communicate clearly with operators and site teams. If you're reliable, take pride in your work, and are looking to join a well-respected company with ongoing projects, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities:
Sling and direct complex lifts alongside experienced crane operators
Identify and report defects with lifting and rigging equipment
Assist with crane setup, deconstruction, and site preparation
Keep work areas safe, tidy, and compliant with site rules
Communicate clearly with crane operators, supervisors and clients
Help maintain high safety standards on every lift and every site
What we're looking for:
Solid understanding of lift plans, site hazards and best practices
Full NZ driver’s licence
Strong teamwork, communication, and organisational skills
Reliability, professionalism, and a commitment to safety
Clear pre-employment drug & alcohol test
Holds NZQA Unit Standards 30072 and 3789
What we offer:
Guaranteed minimum 40 hours per week plus overtime opportunities
A supportive and down-to-earth team environment
Opportunities for ongoing training and career development
Stable, long-term role with exciting projects
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We’re on the lookout for a skilled Mobile Crane Operator ready to take on challenging lifts and keep projects moving safely and efficiently. If you’ve got a sharp eye, steady hand, and love working where the action is, this is your chance to join a respected team with a strong pipeline of work ahead.
What You'll Be Doing (Key tasks and responsibilities)
As a Crane Operator, you'll play a crucial role on-site by:
Mobilising, erecting, and demobilising cranes.
Carrying out complex lifts involving containers, man cages, concrete structures and more.
Performing daily maintenance checks and ensuring all lifting equipment is safe.
Communicating effectively with the rigging team and site supervisors.
Ensuring strict compliance with health, safety, and site-specific requirements.
What We’re Looking For
You’ll thrive in this role if you have:
Unit Standard 3789 & 3795.
At least 3+ years of crane operation experience.
A current Full NZ driver’s licence. Class 4 Minimum (Class 5 a bonus)
WTR preferred. BESS would be advantageous.
A strong commitment to safety and high standards of professionalism.
Flexibility, reliability, and a team-first attitude
A clean pre-employment drug and alcohol test.
What We Offer
Pay rate: $30-$40 per hour
Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week
Christchurch location
Work with an industry leader in construction and heavy lifting.
Be part of a supportive, safety-focused team.
Ongoing development opportunities and job stability.
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Ready to take your mechanical career to the next level?
We’re looking for an experienced Heavy Diesel Mechanic to join our high-performing team. You’ll be working with cutting-edge equipment across a broad fleet of cranes and heavy plant, with real opportunities to be part of major infrastructure projects — both in New Zealand and overseas.What You’ll Be Doing:
Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic and low-voltage electrical faults across our fleet
Undertake breakdown callouts, routine servicing, rebuilds and preventative maintenance
Work with a diverse range of gear including crawler cranes, tower cranes, excavators, trucks, trailers and loaders
Support crane builds, mobilisation/demobilisation, and major overhauls
Use schematics, diagnostic tools and your technical expertise to deliver high-quality, efficient outcomes
What We’re Offering:
A modern, fully equipped service vehicle for work and commute use
Opportunities to work on major projects overseas — Antarctica, Australia, the Pacific and beyond
Competitive remuneration with time and a half paid after 40 hours
Exposure to industry-leading machinery and a variety of challenging projects
Ongoing training and support for upskilling and certifications
Work alongside an experienced, down-to-earth team in a professional and supportive environment
What You’ll Bring:
NZ trade qualification (Heavy Diesel or similar) with 3+ years’ post-trade experience
Solid background in servicing and repairing heavy plant or similar equipment
Strong fault-finding skills in mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems
Self-motivated, reliable, and able to work independently or as part of a team
Full Class 5 NZ driver’s licence (WTR endorsements are a bonus)
This role is based in Papakura, Auckland, but you’ll have the chance to work on projects across the country.
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Are you an experienced mechanic looking for your next challenge?
Smith Crane & Construction Ltd is on the lookout for a skilled and motivated Light Vehicle Mechanic to join our busy mechanical workshop in Christchurch.What You’ll Be Doing:
Service, repair, and carry out preventative maintenance on our large Light Vehicle Fleet. (Late model Toyota Hilux, Landcruiser etc.)
Diagnose complex electronic systems using scan tools.
Replace engines, transmissions, braking components.
Test, drive as part of the fault-finding and repair process
Maintain detailed service records using the latest software tools
Always prioritise health, safety, and compliance on site
What You’ll Bring:
At least 3+ years’ experience as a mechanic, with automotive background.
NZ-recognised mechanic qualification
Confident diagnosing faults and identifying repairs
Current Full NZ driver’s licence
Strong commitment to health & safety and a team-focused mindset
Organised, reliable, and ready to adapt in a fast-paced environment
Why join us?
Pay rate: $35-$42 per hour + OT after 40 hours
Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week
Christchurch Location
Work for an iconic NZ-owned business known for delivering complex crane and construction projects nationwide
Varied and rewarding work – each day brings a new challenge
Opportunities to grow and upskill as a HD Mechanic with Crane, Transport & Civil Equipment.
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We’re looking for a competent and experienced Rigger Dogman who’s confident working with lift plans, rigging gear, and crane operations. You’ll need to have solid industry experience, a strong focus on safety, and the ability to communicate clearly with operators and site teams. If you're reliable, take pride in your work, and are looking to join a well-respected company with ongoing projects, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities:
Sling and direct complex lifts alongside experienced crane operators
Identify and report defects with lifting and rigging equipment
Assist with crane setup, deconstruction, and site preparation
Keep work areas safe, tidy, and compliant with site rules
Communicate clearly with crane operators, supervisors and clients
Help maintain high safety standards on every lift and every site
What we're looking for:
Solid understanding of lift plans, site hazards and best practices
Full NZ driver’s licence
Strong teamwork, communication, and organisational skills
Reliability, professionalism, and a commitment to safety
Clear pre-employment drug & alcohol test
Holds Unit Standards 30072 and 3789
What we offer:
Guaranteed minimum 40 hours per week plus overtime opportunities
A supportive and down-to-earth team environment
Opportunities for ongoing training and career development
Stable, long-term role with exciting projects
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We’re on the lookout for a skilled Mobile Crane Operator ready to take on challenging lifts and keep projects moving safely and efficiently. If you’ve got a sharp eye, steady hand, and love working where the action is, this is your chance to join a respected team with a strong pipeline of work ahead.
What You'll Be Doing (Key tasks and responsibilities)
As a Crane Operator, you'll play a crucial role on-site by:
Mobilising, erecting, and demobilising cranes.
Carrying out complex lifts involving containers, man cages, concrete structures and more.
Performing daily maintenance checks and ensuring all lifting equipment is safe.
Communicating effectively with the rigging team and site supervisors.
Ensuring strict compliance with health, safety, and site-specific requirements.
What We’re Looking For
You’ll thrive in this role if you have:
Unit Standard 3789 & 3795.
At least 3+ years of crane operation experience.
A current Full NZ driver’s licence. Class 4 Minimum (Class 5 a bonus)
WTR preferred. BESS would be advantageous.
A strong commitment to safety and high standards of professionalism.
Flexibility, reliability, and a team-first attitude
A clean pre-employment drug and alcohol test.
What We Offer
Pay rate: $30-$40 per hour
Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week
Queenstown location
Work with an industry leader in construction and heavy lifting.
Be part of a supportive, safety-focused team.
Ongoing development opportunities and job stability.
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We are looking for a competent and experienced Rigger Dogman to join our team in Christchurch. You will be confident working with lift plans, rigging gear, and crane operations. You’ll need to have solid industry experience, a strong focus on safety, and the ability to communicate clearly with operators and site teams. If you're reliable, take pride in your work, and are looking to join a well-respected company with ongoing projects, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities:
Prepare and inspect rigging equipment for safe lifting operations
Assist crane operators with load positioning and movement
Communicate clearly with the team to ensure safe and efficient operations
Maintain compliance with safety procedures and site requirements
Perform routine inspections and report any equipment issues
Support the team with general labouring tasks as needed
What we're looking for:
A solid work ethic and a good attitude
Has 3+ years of experience as a Rigger Dogman in the crane industry
Holds NZQA Unit Standards 30072 and 3789
Clear spoken English and strong communication skills
What we offer:
Minimum Guaranteed: 40 hours per week + overtime opportunities paid at time and a half
Location: Christchurch
A supportive and down-to-earth team environment
Opportunities for ongoing training and career development
Stable, long-term role with exciting projects
Wind Farm Special Projects
We have a piple line of wind farm projects coming up around New Zealand. These roles will be based at various windfarm locations around New Zealand that include KAIWERA DOWNS - Gore, KAIWAIKAWE - Dargaville and various other locations. Whether you’re a crane operator, electrical technician, health and safety advisor, mechanic, or a skilled tradie, we’re building our team - and we want you.
This is a great opportunity to step into the renewable energy industry. Some of our team started with little or no experience working on the wind farms and now they’ve built solid careers. If you’re safety focused, experienced, reliable, keen to learn, come join us.
Keen to be part of our specialist wind team? Apply Here
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Are you ready to be part of New Zealand’s renewable energy future?
We’re looking for experienced Crane Operators to join our high-performing Wind Division team. You’ll help mobilise, operate and maintain cranes on some of NZ’s largest wind farm projects. This role will be based at various windfarm locations around New Zealand that include KAIWERA DOWNS - Gore, KAIWAIKAWE - Dargaville and various other locations.What you'll do:
Safely operate cranes and undertake lifts as per site schedules
Support crane assembly, deconstruction & rigging activities
Perform daily/weekly crane checks & routine maintenance
Work closely with dogmen, riggers & site teams to get the job done
Maintain compliance and keep daily records up to date
What we’re after:
NZQA Crane Operator & Rigging Qualifications (or international equivalent)
2+ years’ crane industry experience, ideally on wind farms
A clean pre-employment drug and alcohol test.
Positive, can-do attitude and flexibility to work in changing weather
A current Full New Zealand driver’s licence (or valid international licence)
A strong commitment to safety and high standards of professionalism.
Flexibility, reliability, and a team-first attitude
What We Offer
Pay rate: $30-$50 per hour
1 year fixed term contract
Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week
Southland, Northland and various locations
Be part of a supportive, safety-focused team.
Ongoing development opportunities
If you’re ready to step into a role that’s challenging, rewarding, and vital to the success of major renewable energy projects— We want to hear from you.
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Become part of our specialist wind team delivering NZ’s next generation of renewable energy.
We’re looking for experienced Rigger/Dogmen to support crane lifts, transport and installation on large wind farms. These roles will be based at various windfarm locations around New Zealand that include KAIWERA DOWNS - Gore, KAIWAIKAWE - Dargaville and various other locations.About Us
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 strong team culture, commitment to safety, and continuing our family tradition of excellent customer focus and job execution.
What you'll be doing:
Safely use tools and equipment (EWP, Forklift, telehandler)
Rigging & slinging loads safely, following lift & rigging plans
Communicate clearly with crane operators & site teams
Inspect, maintain & report on lifting gear and rigging equipment
Support crane mobilisation, assembly & deconstruction
Work outdoors in variable weather & flexible hours
Installing and unloading wind turbine components up to 100 ton
Move cranes and equipment on site
What we're after:
NZQA Rigging Qualifications (or international equivalent)
Qualified to operate EWP, Telehandler, Forklift or a willingness to learn
2+ years’ rigging experience, ideally on wind farms or cranes
Clear communicator & strong safety mindset
Physically fit and reliable
What we offer:
Pay rate: $28-$40 per hour
1 year fixed term contract
Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week
Southland, Northland and various locations
Be part of a supportive, safety-focused team
On the job training
If you’re ready to step into a role that’s challenging, rewarding, and vital to the success of major renewable energy projects— We want to hear from you.
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We’re seeking Mechanical Technicians to install, inspect and service wind turbines on large-scale projects. These roles will be based at various windfarm locations around New Zealand that include KAIWERA DOWNS - Gore, KAIWAIKAWE - Dargaville and Various Other Locations
What you'll do:
Install & maintain wind turbine mechanical & hydraulic systems
Use hydraulic tools to torque and tension bolted connections
Fit-out, prepare and complete wind turbine internal components
Diagnose and fix faults on complex systems (with electrical colleagues)
Use tools, EWP, forklifts & telehandlers safely
Keep accurate records and daily diaries of work completed
Work at heights & in confined spaces, always putting safety first
Install minor and major wind turbine components working with the crane crew
What we're after:
Mechanical qualification preferred
2+ years’ experience, ideally on wind turbines or cranes
Physically fit – climb towers (80–125m) & lift up to 25kg
GWO & Vestas experience a bonus
Team player, methodical, safety-focused, with a willingness to work in outdoor environments with a flexible mindset
What we offer:
Pay rate: $30-$50 per hour
1 year fixed term contract
Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week
Southland, Northland and various locations
Be part of a supportive, safety-focused team.
Ongoing development and training opportunities
If you’re ready to step into a role that’s challenging, rewarding, and vital to the success of major renewable energy projects— We want to hear from you.
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Join our specialist Wind Division delivering major wind farm projects across NZ!
As an Electrical Technician, you’ll install, commission and maintain wind turbine electrical systems to the highest standards. This role will be based at various windfarm locations around New Zealand that include KAIWERA DOWNS - Gore, KAIWAIKAWE - Dargaville and various Other Locations.What you'll do:
Install & service turbine electrical & hydraulic systems
Safely use EWP, Forklift, Telehandler and other equipment
Diagnose and repair faults using specialised tools & software
Cable work and pulling, termination & testing (including work at height)
Keep detailed records and use mobile apps to document work
Positively engage with clients & site teams
Cable routing, cable tying, installing cabinets and junction box
What we're after:
Registered electrician (NZ electrical workers board) preferred or Limited Licence
2+ years’ experience, ideally in wind or crane industries
Physically fit – able to climb towers up to 125m & lift 25kg
GWO & Vestas turbine experience an advantage but not mandatory
Great communicator & committed to safety
Flexible mindset & able to work in an outdoor environment
What we offer:
Pay rate: $30-$50 per hour
1 year fixed term contract
Minimum guaranteed: 40 hours per week
Southland, Northland and various locations
Be part of a supportive, safety-focused team
If you’re ready to step into a role that’s challenging, rewarding, and vital to the success of major renewable energy projects— We want to hear from you.
We believe that the best learning and up-skilling happens on the job.
At Smith Crane and Construction we have a desire to support the next generation of professionals in the industry. That's why we are lucky enough to have in-house training providing by Jason Campbell. This allows us to up skill staff continuously and take on trainee operators while learning from Jason who has been in the industry for over 20 years.
Jason won the award for Crane Association of New Zealand Trainer of the year in 2023 show casing his dedication to training and the future of the industry. We are proud to have him lead our silver team and training programs.
"Jason has been instrumental in the upskilling of our team. His knowledge and skills in the assembly, operation, and supervision of cranes and lifts of all types; large and small, is exceptional. Jason is a bit of a character who relates well with all of his work colleagues and trainees in a practical and down-to-earth manner thus ensuring that trainees find training an enjoyable and positive experience.
Jason spends a considerable amount of time studying and understanding the technical specifications and manuals for many cranes, he is very proficient and professional in his work and is always sharing these skills with colleagues & trainees. He possesses a willingness to share his extensive knowledge & skills with all he works with and is a highly valued member of the team." - Tim Smith, Managing Director Smith Crane & Construction.
If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding career in the crane and construction industry, we invite you to explore our current job openings and apply. Join the silver team and be a part of a company that is dedicated to providing excellent crane hire and construction services.
Why join the silver team?
We believe our success is attributable to our highly skilled, experienced and hard-working team of over 300 around the country.
At Smith Crane and Construction we offer a wide range of interesting work, a large fleet of heavy machinery, industry leading technology and most importantly a supportive team to work with and learn from.
We understand the value that comes from having a diverse team. With staff from all walks of life and a variety of highly skilled tradespeople we have fostered a positive, engaging work place that is made up of talented individuals who are passionate about their work and Smith Crane and Construction’s future. We have sourced international talent to contribute to significant projects such as our windfarm and crane hire teams. Smith Crane and Construction are proud to be an accredited employer with New Zealand Immigration. We have held an accreditation since 2021 and have had over 100 workers from around the world join the silver team to complete projects. This allows us to have industry leading knowledge and practical experience from around the globe.
A career in construction is like no other, with a wide variety of roles available across our business you can be sure to love your job.
Working in the crane industry offers a dynamic career path filled with diverse opportunities and challenges. Operating cranes demands precision, skill, and a commitment to safety, fostering personal growth and responsibility. At Smith Cranes we encourage our staff to embrace cutting-edge technology while honoring time-tested practices. The industry's demand ensures steady employment and competitive wages, with room for career advancement and specialization. Every day presents unique challenges, from intricate maneuvers to contributing to large scale projects, instilling a sense of pride and accomplishment. Additionally, the industry fosters a community of skilled professionals, promoting collaboration and learning, making it an enticing choice for those seeking a fulfilling and impactful career.