Trainee Service Locator

Te kōwhiringa | The Opportunity

As a Trainee Utility Locator, you’ll learn how to identify, map and mark underground services to help protect critical infrastructure such as telecommunications, power, water and gas networks.

Working alongside experienced locators, you’ll be trained to use specialised GPS/GNSS and GIS technology to capture and analyse underground network data. You’ll also use locating equipment to accurately identify and mark buried utilities before construction or maintenance work begins.

This role is a great fit for someone who enjoys working outdoors, solving problems, and using technology in the field. Each day brings different sites, environments and challenges. You’ll play an important role in ensuring work around underground services is completed safely, accurately and efficiently for our customers.

This is a Full Time, Permanent opportunity guaranteeing 40 hours of work with overtime and allowances available.

Nga pūkenga matua | Important Skills

We’re looking for someone motivated to learn and grow in the utilities industry. Ideally, you will bring

• A full New Zealand driver’s licence
• Interest in technology, mapping, or infrastructure
• Ability to work outdoors in varying terrain and weather
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Good communication and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Physical fitness to work on active sites and around trenches

Experience with GPS, surveying, GIS (ArcGIS), or utility locating equipment would be beneficial but not essential — full training will be provided.

Ko wai mātou | Our Organisation

Underground Service Locators (USL), a part of Downer group, is a leading specialist company in the field of underground cable locating. We provide comprehensive location service for telecommunications plant, power, gas, water and private cable networks nationwide. Our customers nationwide include major telecommunications, utility companies, councils, and contractors.

We are 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.

Ngā Painga o te Mahi ki Downer | Benefits of working with Downer

Our purpose is to enable communities to thrive, driven by your passion and dedication. We offer a wide range of opportunities for personal and professional growth, with support systems tailored to your diverse needs and aspirations. Our benefits focus on four key areas:

• Career: We invest in your success with personal development planning, training and upskilling opportunities, and established leadership programmes designed to support long-term career growth.
• Wellbeing: Your safety, health and wellbeing are our priorities. We embed Zero Harm practices across all our work, and offer free counselling for you and your immediate whānau, as well as access to Marram healthcare benefits and discounted holiday homes throughout Aotearoa.
• Community: Together, we make a difference. We’re proud of the strong culture within our E&U teams. You’ll also have opportunities to connect through our employee networks including StandOut (LGBTQIA+), Fetu Pasifika, EmpowerHER and Wāhine Kotahitanga, which celebrate diversity and foster belonging.
• Individuality: We celebrate high performance and what makes you unique. Perks@Downer gives you access to a range of offers tailored to your lifestyle, including discounts on Southern Cross premiums, gym memberships, car rentals, movies, travel, and cashback on retail purchases.

How to apply | Me pēhea ki te tono

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, click Apply Now to submit your application! The reference number for this role is 736135.

We are committed to a safe working environment for everyone - all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre-employment drug screen, medical and a Ministry of Justice check prior to starting employment.