Crane Operator - Mobile Crane

Hawkes Bay Crane & Platform Hire is a well-established, family-owned crane, access equipment and transport company based in Whakatu, Hawkes Bay.

With a modern fleet of mobile cranes ranging from 10T to 220T, we service a wide variety of lifting projects across the region. Due to continued groth, we are seeking a skilled and motivated Mobile Crane Operator to join our busy and professional team.

You will be working alongside experienced operators, drivers and support staff in an environment that prioritises safety, teamwork, and high-quality service delivery.

What we offer:

• Competitive hourly rate ($35 - $50 depending on experience)
• Time and a half overtime rates
• Monthly phone and boot allowance
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• A well-established, supportive and busy team
• A variety of work across commercial, residential and infrastructure projects

About the role: This is a hands-on role requiring a high level of technical skill, safety awareness, and professionalism. You will be responsible for safely delivering lifting operations across a range of job sites.

Key responsibilities:

• Safely operate mobile cranes in accordance with lift plans, load charts and site requirements.
• Travel to and from job sites and position cranes for safe and efficient operation.
• Set up cranes, including deployment of outriggers, mats/blocks, and ensuring ground conditions are suitable.
• Interpret lift plans, crane load charts, and technical specifications to ensure safe lifting operations.
• Carry out lifting, placement, and positioning of loads as directed including complex or multi-lift operations.
• Communicate effectively with dogmen/riggers, spotters and site personnel during lifting operations.
• Conduct pre-start checks, routine inspections and basic maintenance of crane equipment.
• Complete accurate daily logs, lift documentation, and compliance records (digital and/or written).
• Ensure all work is carried out in accordance with company H&S policies, industry standards, and site-specific requirements.
• Maintain a high standard of housekeeping and care for all plant and equipment.
• Assist with general duties or other operational tasks as required.

What we are looking for:

• NZQA Unit Standards 3789 & 3795 (minimum requirement).
• Minimum 2 years' experience operating mobile cranes.
• Strong understanding of crane load charts and lifting principles.
• Class 4 driver's licence (minimum).
• Ability to obtain BESS accreditation.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication skills and attention to detail.
• Good level of written and spoken English.
• Physically fit and capable of working in a hands-on environment.

Hours of work: Monday to Friday: 7:00 am - 4.00 pm. Regular overtime, weekend and after-hours work available.

Pre-employment requirements:

• Pre-employment medical and drug test.
• Ongoing random drug testing.
• Must have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.

If you would like to know more about the role, please email Kirsty on kirsty@hbcraneandplatform.co.nz and request a copy of the job description.

HOW TO APPLY: If this sounds like you, apply now with a CV and cover letter. Please ensure that you note what licenses and endorsements you currently hold along with your application.

To find out more about the company and the equipment we have, visit our website: https://www.hbcraneandplatform.co.nz or visit our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/hbcraneandplatform/