The highest paying jobs in construction, architecture and engineering 2023 - 2024

- Population growth will place increased pressure on ageing assets, roads, public transport and other infrastructure.
- Momentum towards climate change mitigation will quicken, meaning existing and future infrastructure will need to be adapted.
- Inflation and labour shortages are causing a constrained labour market.
- Increases in tourism activity will support commercial construction such as retail and hospitality buildings.
- Digital transformations will begin to be leveraged and integrated in the sector.
The highest paying construction, architecture and engineering jobs in New Zealand in 2023 - 2024
Unless stated otherwise, all the salaries listed will be for professionals in Auckland. While Auckland typically dominates in average salary, sometimes the highest paying roles can be found across Wellington and Christchurch.
Construction: Construction manager (up to $224K)
In residential construction, both construction managers and project managers are the highest earning positions in this area, both taking home a typical salary of $140K in Auckland, with salaries reaching as high as $180K for residential construction managers in Wellington and the South Island.
Construction: Design manager ($138K)
Construction: Senior estimator (up to $170K)
Engineering: Group manager/principal (up to $260K)
Engineering: Civil project manager (up to $170K)
Architecture: BIM/CAD manager ($130K)
Architecture: Senior planner (up to $130K)
Find more of New Zealand’s highest paying jobs
Download the Hays Salary Guide for more insights on salaries across New Zealand’s top industries. Drawing on data from more than 14,000 respondents in Australia and New Zealand, the Hays Salary Guide extends far beyond salaries to offer market insights and emerging workforce trends for both employers and jobseekers alike.
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