Looking for your next engineering job? Thanks to strong government investment in infrastructure and a critical shortage of workers, job opportunities for engineers are excellent in New Zealand right now. Many engineering skills are on the Immigration New Zealand skill shortage list, meaning the government are actively seeking to encourage engineers to relocate to New Zealand. Now is the perfect time to consider relocating to New Zealand for a role in engineering.
Ready to make the move? First, is your engineering qualification recognised within New Zealand?
Read on for a list of engineering roles in high demand, as well as salary expectations here in New Zealand.
According to the Immigration New Zealand skill shortage list, the following engineering jobs are in critical shortage (effective from 27 May 2019):
Civil Engineer
A role in civil engineering typically involves planning and designing structures such as roads, dams, buildings, drainage systems or wharves. Civil engineers oversee and manage the building of these structures, and often consult with contractors, government officials and clients to see the project through to completion. Graduate civil engineers usually earn between $60K-$70K a year, while mid-level to senior civil engineers can earn between $75K-$180K per year.
Civil Engineering Technician/Draughtsperson
Civil engineering technicians/draughtspeople draw up the technical plans and details for building and repairing bridges, roads, buildings and other structures. They’re often required to liaise with clients, contractors and subcontractors in order to write detailed building specifications to carry out a project. Civil engineering cadets can earn $50K a year, while workers with an NZDE or similar qualification can expect to start on $40K-$50K per year. More experienced civil engineering technicians/draughtspeople can typically earn between $60K-$100K.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical engineers develop, design and manufacture, as well as maintain, operate and manage, all aspects of electrical systems. Responsibilities can range from designing ways to distribute electricity through to calculating the costs of materials required for a project. Graduate electrical engineers will earn between $50K-$70K a year, while mid-senior level electrical engineers can earn up to $75K-$200K per year.
Electrical Engineering Technician
Electrical engineering technicians ensure the plans of the electrical engineer are carried out. By interpreting technical plans, electrical engineering technicians install, test and maintain electrical systems. Graduate technicians can expect to earn between $22-$27 an hour, while mid-senior level technicians can typically earn between $28-$43 an hour.
Other engineering roles in high demand in New Zealand include:
- Structural Engineer
- Civil Engineering Technician
- Electrical Engineering Draughtsperson
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With companies fighting to maintain a high delivery of work, clients are looking to hire candidates with recent and relevant experience. Depending on the role, companies are typically looking for workers with 5+ years in the industry and a sound understanding of NZ codes and standards.
Want to chat about all things engineering? Our engineering recruitment experts are fortified with specialised industry knowledge to give you the edge on your quest for new employment. Reach out to us today.