Shadforth is hiring skilled and motivated Excavator Operators to join their Pipe Crews working on large-scale subdivision projects in Greenbank. This role is ideal for operators with experience in deep excavations, trenching, and infrastructure installation. Whether you’re a side operator or a lead operator, this is your opportunity to work in a supportive team, enjoy weekly pay, and be home each night while contributing to the development of a major master-planned community. Long-term employment and career advancement opportunities are available for the right candidates.
Company Overview
Founded over 50 years ago on the Sunshine Coast, Shadforth has grown into one of Queensland’s largest family-owned civil construction companies. Their services span a wide range of sectors, including residential subdivisions, commercial infrastructure, and major roadworks. They have a solid presence across Queensland and Northern New South Wales, known for delivering high-quality outcomes with a client-first focus. Shadforth is committed to excellence, innovation, and building long-term relationships with clients and communities. The company prides itself on its people-first culture, offering employees stable work, meaningful recognition, and professional development. Their dedication to safety, diversity, and inclusion makes Shadforth a standout employer in the civil construction industry.
Location and Work Type
- Work Type: On-site, full-time
- Location: Greenbank, with projects across Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast Region
- Schedule: Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM, with Saturdays as required
- Travel: Local only – be home every night
What Will You Do?
As a Side Excavator Operator:
- Operate 20+ tonne excavators in trenching and lifting tasks
- Assist in stormwater, sewer, and mains installations
- Safely perform deep excavation work
- Work confidently in confined areas and shoring box setups
- Collaborate with team members to meet project deadlines
- Follow instructions from pipelayers and site supervisors
- Use correct hand signals and comply with industry safety standards
As a Lead Excavator Operator:
- Manage deep trenching and benching operations to spec
- Excavate carefully around existing services and teams
- Lead safety compliance on site for excavation tasks
- Support site layout and trenching using GPS tools (desirable but not mandatory)
- Set the pace and quality for other team members on pipe crews
Requirements
Must-Have Skills
- Minimum 2 years’ experience in civil construction, especially subdivisions
- Proven ability to operate excavators (20+ tonne) with trenching and lifting duties
- Experience working in and around shoring boxes and deep excavations
- Valid tickets and licences relevant to civil equipment operation
- Knowledge of safe work practices and ability to follow verbal and hand instructions
- Personal transport to job sites
- Ability to work consistent full-day shifts (6:30 AM–5:00 PM) with flexibility for Saturdays
- Positive attitude and ability to work well in a tight-knit team
Preferred Skills
- Experience using GPS systems for trenching and layout
- Previous work with pipe crews on subdivision projects
- Competence in handling multiple excavation tasks across different site phases
Compensation and Benefits
At Shadforth, you’ll be rewarded for your skills and dedication with a competitive pay structure and a comprehensive list of employee benefits:
Earnings and Allowances
- Weekly pay with overtime and penalties included
- Consistent, long-term project work with job security
- Local-only work – be home each night
Growth and Development
- Clear career advancement paths within a growing civil contractor
- Opportunity to complete a Certificate III in Civil Construction
- Upskilling with nationally recognized tickets and licenses
Wellness and Recognition
- Regular ShadLife Wellness Programs and awareness events
- Milestone celebrations for birthdays, service anniversaries, and achievements
- A company that values team culture, inclusion, and diversity
Application Process
Ready to get started? Here’s how to apply:
- Visit: Shadforth Careers via Adzuna
- Submit: An up-to-date resume and cover letter outlining your experience
- Screening: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a phone or in-person interview
- Timeline: Expect a response within 7 business days from application
- Questions? Visit www.shadcivil.com.au for more details and to explore other roles
Why Join Shadforth?
This is more than a job—it’s a chance to join a team that’s building Queensland’s future infrastructure. Whether you’re experienced with deep trenching, pipe laying, or GPS-guided excavation, your expertise will be valued and rewarded. At Shadforth, people matter. You’ll enjoy stability, local work, and real pathways to advancement, all within a culture that prioritizes well-being, recognition, and inclusion.
Looking for a stable and rewarding career as an excavator operator? Apply now and dig into a better future with Shadforth!