Job Description
Te Kowhiringa | The Opportunity
Join Downer and play a key role in delivering high-quality 3 Waters construction and maintenance across our Wanganui network.
We’re looking for an experienced Foreperson - 3 Waters to lead and support our crews in the delivery of civil infrastructure works. This is a hands-on leadership role where you’ll be responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising daily activities to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard.
No two days are the same – you’ll be working closely with internal teams, subcontractors, and stakeholders to keep projects moving and standards high, while also coaching and developing your crew on the ground.
Your Day to Day will include:
• Plan, organise, and supervise crews to deliver 3 waters works on time and to specification
• Lead and coordinate Downer staff and subcontractors to meet operational and contract requirements
• Assign tasks, manage priorities, and ensure efficient use of labour, plant, and materials
• Monitor site progress and adjust work programmes as required
• Complete daily job records (DJRs), documentation, and reporting accurately and on time
• Identify, notify, and support the valuation of variations alongside the Project Engineer
• Ensure work is set out and agreed prior to crews commencing on site
• Maintain accurate daily job diaries and measurement records
• Liaise effectively with Supervisors, Engineers, and internal stakeholders
• Support plant utilisation, including maintenance planning and minimising downtime
• Manage fuel usage and plant costs in line with company protocols
• Provide hands-on leadership, training, and development for crew members
• Promote and lead a strong Zero Harm culture across all site activities
Ngā Pūkenga Motuhake | Important Skills
You’re a confident, hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering quality outcomes.
• Proven experience supervising crews in civil construction or 3 waters environments
• Strong understanding of underground services, drainage, or water infrastructure work
• Ability to lead teams and make decisions in dynamic, changing environments
• Experience coordinating subcontractors and managing site activities
• Strong planning, organisational, and problem-solving skills
• Understanding of productivity, cost control, and plant/resource utilisation
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Commitment to continuous improvement and safe work practices
• Full NZ driver’s licence
He aha ngā painga o tēnei mahi mōu | Why you will enjoy working here
• Permanent, full-time role with consistent hours
• Opportunity to lead and develop a high-performing crew
• Varied, hands-on work across 3 waters and civil infrastructure projects
• Career development and training opportunities within Downer
• Strong safety-first culture (Zero Harm)
• Employee benefits including discounts and wellbeing support
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
Me pēhea te tono | How to apply
Apply now with your CV and a short cover letter outlining your leadership and construction experience. Reference Number : 733504
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 a 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.