Want to earn a high-end salary working outdoors and on the tools? Check out our blog and learn some of the top paying construction jobs in New Zealand.
If you don’t want to sit at a desk all day and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, working in construction in New Zealand can be one of the best decisions that you’ll make for your career future. Depending on where you specialise, some fields can be much more lucrative than others, but knowledge is power, so you need to know which roles are going to push your career goals to new heights!
In our latest blog, we’ll cover some of the top-paying construction jobs, what you’ll be doing, how to get qualified and what you can earn.
Estimator
An Estimator’s job is to work with clients, contractors, suppliers and other stakeholders to put together an estimate for how much a project will cost and how long it will take. They’re usually hired by construction companies before taking a project on so that the company can decide how much to quote for a job. Some of the day-to-day tasks of an Estimator include:
- Researching materials, equipment and labour costs
- Collecting quotes from suppliers, sub-contractors and other service providers
- Risk assessments
- Preparing and submitting quotes
- Monitoring to ensure costs match estimates
How Much do Estimators Earn?
An Estimator’s salary ranges from $54,000-$99,000K and there is a potential to earn bonuses depending on the company you’re working with.
How to Become an Estimator
To become an Estimator, you’ll need a Construction Estimating Certificate from a registered educational provider, for example NZAE.
Like any other construction job in New Zealand, you’ll need to apply for any other licences and certifications required for site.
Electrician
An Electrician repairs, installs, and maintains electrical systems and networks. They’re among the highest-paid trades in New Zealand but they’re also one of the hardest positions to qualify for.
Like most trades, you can make great money in maintenance and repair jobs, but Construction Electricians who work on large-scale industrial sites have the highest earning potential. Some of the day-to-day tasks of an Electrician include:
- Installing electrical systems
- Testing and ensuring the safety of electrical systems
- Monitoring for and removing potential hazards
How Much do Electricians Earn?
An Electrician’s salary ranges from $47,000-$80,000K with room to grow based on the business model.
The average hourly rate for an Electrician ranges from $22-$37 per hour.
Though keep in mind that this range covers other specialisations. Electricians who work in construction generally earn more.
How to Become an Electrician
Due to the hazards involved in the work, applying for an apprenticeship and becoming qualified to be an Electrician is more complicated than other trades.
While it isn’t compulsory, it’s recommended that you complete a foundation programme before beginning your apprenticeship. This will prepare you for the classes you’ll take and make you a more attractive candidate to employers who are seeking an apprentice.
Then, you’ll need to complete a Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory and Practice (Trade) (Level 4) while you undergo your apprenticeship. After you’ve completed your Cert IV and apprenticeship, you’ll need to register with the Electrical Workers Registration Board.
Once you’re qualified and licensed, there are a range of further studies and specialisations you can take which can lead to broader career options and higher paying salaries.
Plumber
Plumbers are specialists who repair or install drainage, water, gas, and sewer pipes and systems. Plumbers get paid well, but plumbers who specialise in construction have the ability to earn top wages. Some of the day-to-day tasks of a Plumber include:
- Installing hot and cold water systems
- Installing gas appliances
- Installing drainage pipes and systems
- Studying blueprints of plumbing systems to determine the layout and materials required
How Much do Plumbers Earn?
A Plumber’s salary ranges from $46,000-$76,000K, with chances for salary growth based on seniority and experience.
The average hourly rate for a Plumber ranges from $22-$36 per hour.
Though keep in mind that this range covers other specialisations like Maintenance Plumbers, who typically don’t earn as much as Plumbers who work in Construction.
How to Become a Plumber
Plumbers need to do an apprenticeship that typically takes three-to-four years to complete. During this time, you will need to be employed by a qualified Plumber as you complete your Certificate in Plumbing, Gasfitting or Drainlaying (Level 4).
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you will need to be registered with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board.
You may also do further study to be qualified for more specialised work, which often leads to more lucrative opportunities.
Summary
If you want to earn top rates working in New Zealand construction jobs, you can’t go wrong working as an Estimator, Plumber, or Electrician specialising in construction. Whether you’re looking for a career change, or you’re already working one of these jobs and need advice on your next moves, get in touch with Employment Group.
As a leading recruitment agency, we can help you secure the New Zealand construction jobs you’re looking for, whether it’s full-time or temp jobs, our friendly team has you covered.