As one of New Zealand’s major infrastructure companies, HEB Construction’s reputation grew from its expertise in civil infrastructure and major structures.
Roads, bridges, tunnels, ports, walkways, wastewater systems, even playgrounds – everything HEB Construction does is designed to improve people’s lives nationwide.
But at the heart of every project they deliver is a world-leading workforce!
And to help you explore what you can do with them, they’ve developed a core set of early career programs. These programs provide aspiring individuals with hands-on experience, industry knowledge, and invaluable skills.
Keep reading to discover two exciting early career pathways and where they can lead you in your future career with HEB Construction!
The Engineering Degree Pathway
The Engineering (Degree) Program is designed for those passionate about designing and creating innovative solutions. As a new engineering graduate, you’ll gain exposure to various projects, working alongside experienced professionals in a supportive environment.
During the program, you can work on various construction projects, learning the fundamentals of civil engineering, project management, and design. You’ll develop essential skills in surveying, cost estimation, CAD modelling, and construction methods.
You can also explore your options and see if this pathway is right for you by applying to the Summer Intern program.
Where Can You Go as an Engineering Grad?
This pathway opens doors to a promising career in civil engineering. With a strong foundation in construction practices and project management, you can pursue roles such as:
- Site Engineer: As a Site Engineer, you’ll be reading drawings and specifications and making work ‘packages’, understanding how to deliver a construction sequence. You’ll work closely with a foreman and participate in a strong health and safety culture, becoming a valuable part of a professional team.
- Project Engineer: As a Project Engineer, you’ll develop specialist skills, working with technical designers and consultants. You’ll plan for up to 3 months, preparing logical sequences for the different construction methods. You may also be mentoring one or two of your team members.
- Project Manager: As a Project Manager, you’ll be technically skilled and manage a team of designers and consultants. You’ll be sequencing complex projects, assessing construction methodology and reporting on progress. You’ll also manage the workforce and work closely with clients directly.
- Project Director: Project Directors look after large and complex projects. They manage designers and consultants so that the projects run efficiently, on time and on budget. By this stage in your career, you’ll be comfortable with various construction methodologies and managing project team relationships.
The Apprenticeship Pathway
HEB Construction’s apprenticeships offer a rewarding pathway for those interested in the hands-on aspects of construction and infrastructure development.
The Trades Apprenticeship Program is about getting you into a great trade to earn while you learn and get your qualifications. This is a fully supported programme designed to help you succeed. All you need is some practical ability and a great attitude!
During the apprenticeship, you’ll work closely with experienced tradespeople and mentors, gaining practical skills in formwork, steel fixing, concreting, and carpentry. You’ll also be able to work on various projects, including bridges, buildings, and other infrastructure.
Where Can You Go as an Apprentice?
The apprenticeship pathway equips you with the skills needed for a successful construction and infrastructure development career. Potential career paths include:
- Civil Structures Apprentice: If you’re keen to work hard and like working in a team, you may be offered an apprenticeship to earn while you learn! You can be trade qualified in 3 years and have earthworks, pipelines, roading, piling and concrete construction skills. Your managers will support you over a wide range of construction projects.
- Leading Hand: Completing your trade starts you on your career ladder. You’ll use your trade skills and learn more about HEB’s methodologies, health and safety requirements, environmental culture and risk management. You’ll also understand more about the projects you’re involved with and your role as an integral part of the team.
- Foreperson: As a Foreperson, you’ll develop skills in leadership and using a computer. You’ll understand specialist construction methodologies, health and safety and environmental culture and the systems that make it work. You’ll become a Senior Foreperson, responsible for your team’s productivity and project compliance.
- Site Supervisor: As a Site Supervisor, you’ll run the site project and develop your computer skills, planning the week’s activities for your whole crew and leading a strong health and safety culture. You’ll understand and be responsible for the programme productivity, project budget, quality and delivery of outcomes and compliance.
- Superintendent: As a Superintendent, you’ll manage complex projects alongside engineers on multiple sites. You’ll be involved with risk management, communications, planning, reviewing and co-coordinating works, computer reporting and mentoring the young guns who are starting as you did!
Keen to Learn more?
HEB Construction’s early career programs offer excellent opportunities for individuals looking to kick-start their careers in the construction industry.
Whether you choose the degree pathway or apprenticeship, both pathways provide valuable skills, hands-on experience, and a solid foundation for future growth.
Head over to their exclusive Explore Careers profile to keep learning and see where you can build your career with HEB!
