e ngineering
a brighter future
e ngineering
a brighter future
fun fact
CRUISE CONTROL WAS INVENTED BY BLIND MECHANICAL ENGINEER RALPH TEETOR
Job Prospects
4year
APPRENTICESHIP
$90K
AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY* FOR QUALIFIED MECHANICAL ENGINEERS
*careers.govt.nz
Is mechanical engineering a field with a future in New Zealand?
With the country’s economy on the rise and industries evolving rapidly, the demand for skilled mechanical engineers and tradespeople remains very strong.. In this blog, we’ll explore the statistics, career opportunities, and the growing importance of mechanical engineers and tradespeople in New Zealand’s industrial landscape, helping you understand why this profession might just be your ticket to a promising future.
Chat with us about engineering apprenticeships, industry training programmes and specialised short courses: Whether you’re looking to start your journey to becoming a qualified mechanical engineer, host an ATNZ apprentice, or train your team through our top-tier engineering programmes, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Engineering is a cornerstone of New Zealand’s economy, contributing between $14.6 and $18.1 billion annually to the country’s GDP. A recent report from Engineering New Zealand highlights the growing demand for engineering professionals, with a projected need for nearly 2,500 new engineers each year to meet the rising demand.
Engineering touches all aspects of New Zealand’s economy. From large-scale civil projects that build essential infrastructure to niche fields like food-processing engineering, artificial intelligence, and biomechanical implants, engineers are vital to sustaining and advancing the country’s industrial landscape. About 77,000 engineers are employed across New Zealand, making up approximately 3% of the workforce.
The report emphasises that New Zealand needs an additional 2,500 engineers annually, assuming a 3% long-term economic growth rate. This figure does not account for replacing engineers who retire, leave the profession, or move abroad. The demand is expected to rise even further as the economy grows and diversifies.
New Zealand is actively promoting diversity within the engineering profession. Only 18% of the organisation’s members are women, and Māori and Pasifika engineers are underrepresented. Initiatives like The Diversity Agenda and The Wonder Project aim to create an inclusive environment, showcasing that engineering is a field for everyone.
MECHANICAL
ENGINEERING
ENGINEERING
FABRICATION
REFRIGERATION AND
AIR CONDITIONING
MECHANICAL BUILDING
SERVICES
The career scope for mechanical engineers in New Zealand is promising, with demand expected to increase as the country’s economy grows. Mechanical engineers can pursue various roles depending on the industry, including:
Design engineers in New Zealand are at the forefront of innovation, creating cutting-edge technologies that drive the economy. Their work ensures that products are not only functional but also efficient and reliable, meeting the needs of various industries.
Manufacturing engineers oversee the manufacturing process of machines and systems. They play a crucial role in optimising production lines, ensuring that machines are built to exact specifications and standards. Their expertise helps companies reduce costs, improve quality, and increase production efficiency.
Tests the performance of machines and systems. Test engineers are essential for validating the functionality and safety of mechanical systems before they reach the market. They identify potential issues early in the development process, preventing costly failures and ensuring high-quality products.
Maintains and repairs machines and systems. Maintenance engineers are the backbone of operational reliability, keeping critical machinery running smoothly across various sectors. Their work minimises downtime and extends the lifespan of equipment, which is vital for continuous productivity.
The average salary for a mechanical engineer in New Zealand is approximately NZ$80,000 per year. Junior engineers typically earn between NZD 55,000 to NZD 70,000 annually, while experienced engineers can command salaries exceeding NZD 100,000 annually.
Mechanical engineering skills are in high demand in New Zealand, driven by several factors:
Mechanical, industrial, and production or plant engineer roles are listed on Immigration New Zealand’s long-term skill shortage list, making it easier for skilled engineers from overseas to find work in the country.
A degree in Mechanical Engineering opens doors to diverse career opportunities in various industries, such as:
Top companies that recruit mechanical engineers in New Zealand include Boeing, Air New Zealand, Fonterra, Fletcher Building, and Orion Energy. Career paths in mechanical engineering range from mechanical design engineers and project managers to research scientists and more.
Chat to us about doing an engineering apprenticeship – Our team is here to help you understand the process and get started on your path to becoming a qualified engineer.
Chat to us about hosting an ATNZ apprentice – If you’re an employer interested in hosting an apprentice, we can guide you through the process and match you with the right candidate.
Chat to us about ATNZ training your apprentice – Enhance your current workforce by providing your team members with top-tier training through our apprenticeship programmes.
ATNZ delivers the New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Advanced) Level 5. This programme aims to develop highly skilled tradespeople with advanced technical skills and supervisory capabilities. It prepares graduates to significantly contribute to business success and competitiveness in mechanical engineering, construction, manufacturing, fabrication, refrigeration, air conditioning, and mechanical building services.
The demand for mechanical engineers in New Zealand is high, driven by a strong manufacturing sector, a robust construction industry, and a need for innovation in agriculture.
A degree in Mechanical Engineering is typically required to become a mechanical engineer in New Zealand. Specialised training and certifications can further enhance career prospects.
Yes, mechanical engineering roles are on Immigration New Zealand’s long-term skill shortage list, making it easier for qualified international engineers to find work there.