Te Kowhiringa | The Opportunity

Join Downer in Palmerston North and play a key role in delivering civil construction works across both pavements and earthworks.

We’re looking for an experienced Foreperson to lead and support our crews across a variety of projects including pavement construction, maintenance, bulk earthworks, and site preparation. This is a hands-on leadership role where you’ll plan, coordinate, and supervise daily site activities to ensure delivery is safe, efficient, and to a high standard.

This is a varied role where no two days are the same – you’ll work closely with internal teams, subcontractors, and stakeholders to keep projects on track, while mentoring and developing your crew on the ground.

Your day-to-day will include:

• Plan, organise, and supervise crews across pavement and earthworks projects
• Lead and coordinate Downer staff and subcontractors to meet operational and contract requirements
• Assign tasks, manage priorities, and optimise use of labour, plant, and materials
• Oversee site works including earthworks, subgrade prep, and pavement construction activities
• Monitor progress and adjust work programmes to meet deadlines
• Complete daily job records (DJRs), detailed reporting, and documentation accurately and on time
• Identify and support the pricing and approval of variations alongside Supervisors/Project Managers
• Ensure accurate set out and scope clarity before crews commence work
• Liaise effectively with Supervisors, Engineers, PM and key stakeholders
• Support plant utilisation, maintenance planning, and minimise downtime
• Manage fuel usage and plant costs in line with company expectations
• Provide hands-on leadership, coaching, and development to crew members
Drive a strong Zero Harm culture across all site activities

Ngā Pūkenga Motuhake | Important Skills

You’re a confident, practical leader with strong experience across both pavements and earthworks, who takes pride in delivering quality results.

• Proven Foreperson or supervisory experience within civil construction
• Strong knowledge of pavement construction and earthworks operations
• Confident leading crews in fast-paced and dynamic site environments
• Experience coordinating subcontractors and managing site delivery
• Solid understanding of productivity, plant utilisation, and cost control
• Strong planning, organisation, and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication skills – both verbal and written
• Commitment to safe work practices and continuous improvement
Full NZ driver’s licence (WTR endorsements advantageous)

He aha ngā painga o tēnei mahi mōu | Why you will enjoy working here

• Permanent, full-time role with consistent work
• Opportunity to lead across a diverse pipeline of pavement and earthworks projects
• Career development and training opportunities within Downer
• Supportive, team-oriented environment
• Strong Zero Harm safety culture
Employee benefits including discounts and wellbeing support

Me pēhea te tono | How to apply

Apply now with your CV and a short cover letter outlining your leadership and civil construction experience. Reference Number: 733987

We are committed to a safe working environment for everyone – all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre-employment drug test, medical, and Ministry of Justice check prior to starting employment. If you need support with this requirement, please talk to our team.

Downer Group is an employer that acknowledges and embraces the importance of our people’s diverse experiences, talents, and cultures. As an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from everyone.