Building, Construction & Engineering

What You Could Do

Career Opportunities in Building & Construction

Job roles in New Zealand’s building and construction industry are diverse, and many professionals develop skills across multiple areas.

Here’s a snapshot of some of the key careers you could pursue:

Trade Roles

This includes skilled professionals such as:

• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Plasterers
• Painters & Decorators
• Carpenters

Tradespeople specialise in one or more technical areas and may work independently, under contract, or as part of larger construction companies. Work can range from residential homes to major commercial and infrastructure projects.

Heavy Machinery Operator

Construction sites rely on powerful equipment to move materials, prepare land, and support large-scale builds.

In this role, you may:

• Operate excavators, loaders, cranes, and other machinery
• Conduct safety and maintenance checks
• Follow strict workplace health and safety procedures
• Use specialised handheld equipment and tools

Construction Manager

Construction Managers oversee projects from planning through to completion.

Responsibilities often include:

• Managing timelines and schedules
• Monitoring budgets and costs
• Coordinating contractors and trades
• Solving on-site challenges
• Communicating with clients and stakeholders

This role combines leadership, organisation, and technical understanding.

Building Surveyor

Building Surveyors provide expert advice on building design, compliance, safety, and performance.

They typically:

• Inspect buildings and sites
• Assess compliance with building regulations
• Prepare technical reports
• Advise on repairs, maintenance, and improvements

Strong analytical skills and regulatory knowledge are essential.

Engineering Roles Supporting the Sector

Engineering plays a central role in construction and infrastructure development.

Here’s an overview of five major disciplines:

Mechanical Engineering

Focuses on systems and objects in motion.

Mechanical Engineers:

• Design and maintain machinery
• Develop mechanical systems
• Improve equipment performance
• Work across manufacturing, energy, transport, and construction

Electrical Engineering

Centres on power, electronics, and energy systems.

Electrical Engineers:

• Design electrical networks and systems
• Manage power distribution
• Develop automation and control systems
• Support renewable energy and infrastructure

Chemical Engineering

Applies chemistry, physics, and mathematics to industrial processes.

Chemical Engineers:

• Design production systems
• Improve efficiency and safety
• Convert raw materials into valuable products
• Work in energy, materials, food, and environmental sectors

Computer Engineering

Combines hardware, systems, and digital technology.

Computer Engineers:

• Develop computing systems
• Design processors and circuit boards
• Build network infrastructure
• Integrate hardware and software solutions

Civil Engineering

One of the most visible and impactful engineering fields.

Civil Engineers:

• Design and deliver infrastructure projects
• Manage roads, bridges, tunnels, and rail
• Support water and transport systems
• Ensure structural safety and sustainability

Beyond These Roles

These careers represent only part of the industry.

The sector also includes:

• Project planners
• Estimators
• Health & Safety Advisors
• Site supervisors
• Logistics coordinators
• Administrative & support roles

Every successful project depends on a wide network of professionals working together.

Graduate Employment and Gender Split

Qualifications & Graduate Outcomes

While a university degree is not essential for every role in the building and construction sector, it is typically required for professional engineering careers.

Understanding graduate employment outcomes can help set expectations and guide future study or training decisions.

Recent graduate surveys in New Zealand continue to show strong employment prospects for engineering graduates, reflecting ongoing demand for technical and infrastructure expertise.

Key insights from recent data:

• A high proportion of engineering graduates secure full-time employment
• Overall employment rates remain consistently strong
• Outcomes vary by specialisation and region

It’s worth noting that graduate employment figures may not fully capture those working part-time, pursuing further study, or exploring entrepreneurial pathways.

Gender Representation

Gender balance within the construction and engineering sectors varies depending on the specific field. However, the industry has traditionally been male-dominated.

Indicative workforce trends show:

Males: Majority representation
Females: Growing participation

Encouragingly, this is changing.

Across New Zealand, industry bodies, employers, and educational institutions are actively working to:

• Increase female participation
• Promote inclusive workplaces
• Support women in trades and engineering
• Highlight diverse career pathways

There is a strong and visible push to improve diversity, particularly in engineering, project leadership, and technical roles.

A Changing Industry

New Zealand’s construction and engineering sectors are evolving — not only in technology and sustainability, but also in workforce diversity and career accessibility.

Average Salary

Current surveys in the sector indicate the median salaries for full-time roles in this industry as:

• Entry-level Trades Roles: $53-$56,000
• Experienced Trades Roles: $68-$107,000
• Construction Manager: $108-$152,000
• Entry-level Engineer: $60-$65,000
• Senior Engineer: $105-$170,000

Salaries can be pretty varied, with lower expectations for entry-level roles. Salaries are also determined by several factors, including:

• The segment of the industry you work within.
• Your job title and seniority.
• The amount of experience you have.
• Any additional qualifications or certifications that give you a specialist niche skillset

Industry Growth

Industry Growth & Outlook

New Zealand’s construction, building, and engineering sector plays a significant role in the national economy, contributing billions of dollars annually and supporting a large, skilled workforce.

The industry has experienced steady growth, driven by:

• Demand for new housing
• Infrastructure investment
• Urban development
• Sustainability and resilience projects

Impact of COVID-19

Like many industries globally, construction activity in New Zealand faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including:

• Temporary site shutdowns
• Workforce restrictions
• Supply chain delays

However, these disruptions were largely short-term.

Long-term growth expectations for the sector remain strong, supported by ongoing development needs and government investment.

Future Demand

Over the coming years, the industry is expected to benefit from:

• Continued housing demand
• Infrastructure upgrades
• Growth in specialised trades
• Increased focus on sustainable building

This outlook reinforces the need for qualified tradespeople, technicians, and engineers.

Workforce Trends

Trade and technical roles continue to represent a major portion of employment within the sector.

Common and in-demand occupations include:

• Carpenters & Joiners
• Electricians
• Plumbers
• Building Technicians
• Surveying Technicians
• Construction Labourers

Many of these roles are projected to see ongoing demand, particularly as New Zealand addresses housing supply, transport infrastructure, and climate-resilient construction.

Qualifications and Entry Pathways

Entry Pathways

Pathways into the building, construction, and engineering sector in New Zealand are diverse and depend on the type of role you’re aiming for.

Vocational Education & Training

Many careers require industry-recognised vocational training, particularly for skilled trades such as:

• Plumbing
• Carpentry
• Electrical

Other roles, including plant and equipment operation, may also require specific licences and certifications.

Apprenticeships & Traineeships

Apprenticeships are one of the most common entry routes into the industry.

They allow you to:

• Earn while you learn
• Gain nationally recognised qualifications
• Build real-world experience
• Develop practical, job-ready skills

School leavers and early-career candidates frequently enter construction through apprenticeships across a wide range of trades.

Work Experience & Entry-Level Roles

After leaving school, you can pursue:

• Entry-level construction roles
• Cadetships
• Employer-led training programs

Many employers support ongoing education, helping workers progress into supervisory, technical, or specialist roles.

Strong foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving are highly valued.

Health & Safety Requirements

Workplace safety is critical in New Zealand’s construction sector.

Most workers must complete:

Site Safe Passport (or equivalent safety induction)
This certification ensures you understand essential workplace health and safety practices before entering a construction site.

Entry-Level Qualifications

Examples of relevant introductory qualifications include:

• New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trades Skills (Level 3)
• New Zealand Certificate in Infrastructure Works (Level 2–3)
• Forklift Operator Certification
• Scaffolding Courses (NZQA-recognised)

Qualifications vary depending on your chosen pathway and specialisation.

Construction Management & Engineering

Professional roles typically require higher education:

Construction Management
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related field

Engineering Roles
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
• Some specialisations may require postgraduate study
• Practical industry placements are often essential

Do Your Research

Entry requirements differ by:

• Role
• Employer
• Specialisation

Always review job descriptions and training prerequisites carefully.

A Pathway for Everyone

Regardless of your academic background, experience level, or career goals — there are multiple qualification and training routes into the construction and engineering sector.

Best Places to Study

Where to Study

Where you choose to study will depend on factors such as your preferred qualification, location, learning style, and career goals.

New Zealand offers a range of highly regarded universities and institutes for building, construction, and engineering studies, including:

University of Auckland
Recognised for engineering, architecture, and construction-related programmes.

University of Canterbury
Well known for civil, mechanical, and structural engineering.

Massey University
Offers strong programmes in construction, engineering, and built environment disciplines.

Victoria University of Wellington
Provides pathways in engineering, design, and project-focused studies.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Known for applied, industry-aligned engineering and construction qualifications.

In addition to universities, students can also explore:

• Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (Te Pūkenga network)
• Trade training providers
• Apprenticeship programmes
• Industry certification pathways

Where to Learn More

Learn More About Careers in Building, Construction & Engineering

You can explore career pathways, industry insights, and professional development opportunities through organisations that support and advocate for the sector in New Zealand.

Some great places to start include:

Registered Master Builders New Zealand
Industry representation, training resources, and career information.

New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB)
Support, accreditation, and professional development for building professionals.

Engineering New Zealand
Professional body for engineers, offering career guidance, accreditation, and networking.

BCITO (Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation)
Apprenticeships and vocational training pathways across construction trades.

Connexis
Industry training organisation supporting infrastructure, civil, and utilities careers.

Site Safe New Zealand
Health and safety training essential for construction site readiness.

Construction Sector Accord
Government–industry partnership supporting workforce development and sector improvement.

Trade Associations & Industry Groups
Provide networking, certification, and specialist career support.

Regional organisations, training providers, and employer groups also offer valuable:

• Career resources
• Industry events
• Networking opportunities
• Training and certification guidance

Build Your Knowledge & Network

Connecting with professional bodies can help you:

✅ Understand career options
✅ Learn industry expectations
✅ Access training pathways
✅ Build professional connections
✅ Stay updated on sector trends

There are many entry points and growth opportunities across New Zealand’s building, construction, and engineering industries.