Leading Hand

About the Role: Leading Hand, Wānaka

As Cook Brothers Construction continues to grow in the region, we are seeking an experienced Leading Hand to join our team in stunning Wānaka.

This hands-on leadership role is key to maintaining high standards on site. Working closely with Site Managers, Build Teams, and Foremen, you’ll ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget. Leading by example, you’ll support your team on the tools while building strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.

Acting as a vital link between Trade Partners, Site Management, and the Build Team, you’ll ensure clear communication, effective delegation, and smooth project delivery from start to finish, taking a proactive, solution-focused approach to risks and challenges.

About You

Great projects start with great people. We are an innovative construction company that values growth, collaboration, and career progression. Your ideas are welcomed, your independence is respected, and your development is supported. 

We are looking for a driven, proactive professional who wants to make a real impact through leadership and continuous improvement. You’ll foster a collaborative environment, tackle on-site challenges, and inspire your team to succeed together. 

To succeed in this role, you will have a recognised New Zealand or Australian Carpentry qualification, strong commercial construction experience, and solid structural knowledge. Leadership experience in construction, a passion for mentoring, and celebrating team achievements are essential. Strong communication skills, confidence in constructive conversations, and proficiency with Microsoft Office are required.

A proactive approach to health and safety is a must. Experience with high-end residential projects or an LBP qualification is highly regarded.

About Us

At Cook Brothers Construction, we back our teams to take ownership, make smart calls, and deliver with pride. Our strength lies in our people and their drive to continually raise the bar. This has led to a legacy of 20 years of dedication and teamwork. We value hard work, celebrate achievements, and take pride in the results we create and the connections we form.

From our Dunedin roots to growth across Auckland, Canterbury, Southern Lakes, Wānaka, and Otago, we’ve built a reputation as one of New Zealand’s leading construction firms.

Our foundations are clear: innovation, quality, sustainability, client satisfaction, health, safety and wellbeing.

If you’re looking to contribute to a company that values trust, collaboration, and growth, Cook Brothers is the place to be.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to join a supportive, high-performing construction team at Cook Brothers Construction. Along with a competitive hourly rate and health insurance, you’ll enjoy an active social club and real opportunities to make an impact on meaningful projects.

If you are ready to drive results, connect people, and grow your career, apply now.

Candidates not currently based in Wānaka should confirm their willingness and timeframe to relocate in their cover letter.

At Cook Brothers Construction, health, safety, and wellbeing are our top priorities. All successful applicants must complete a pre-employment medical, including drug and alcohol testing.

Please note, we are not accepting applications from external recruitment agencies for this role.

Please submit your application via Seek