Excavator Operator – Civil Works (Defence Base)

About the role

Randstad is recruiting an excavator operator for civil works on a defence airfield/base in Darwin City, Northern Territory. The work covers deep utility trenching, bulk earthworks and loading haul trucks, with steady work guaranteed through the Darwin Wet Season.

Key responsibilities

• Precision trenching and service locating for deep utilities, stormwater and drainage installations.
• Bulk earthworks, detailed excavation, battering and benching around live base services.
• Loading haul trucks and managing stockpiles safely on busy civil alignments.
• Daily pre-start checks and routine plant maintenance.
• Adhering strictly to defence airfield/base security protocols and site safety standards.

Required profile

• Australian citizenship is mandatory (defence base security access and baseline clearance eligibility).
• Proven civil experience in detailed trenching around existing live services and utilities.
• Darwin-based or willing to relocate locally for the duration of the Wet Season.
• Must pass a national police check, site induction security protocols and a pre-employment medical including drug and alcohol screening.

Required skills

• Valid nationally accredited excavator ticket (LE / RIIHAN309F or equivalent).
• Current White Card (CPCCWHS1001).

What we offer

• Guaranteed steady work through the Darwin Wet Season.
• Paid weekly, plus overtime penalties.
• Modern, well-maintained fleet and a professional site team.
• Pathway to extended defence and civil infrastructure projects across the Top End.