Graduate Programme - New Zealand & Pacific Islands

Our Graduate Programme will put you on a path to career success – providing you with opportunities to learn, grow and fulfil your potential.

We offer graduate opportunities in

Engineering

Learn alongside our Design Engineering team, analysing project requirements, assisting with temporary works designs, collaborating with consultancies, suppliers, and subcontractors, & developing solutions.

Operations

Work on-site with our project teams, learning all aspects of construction including, scheduling, problem-solving, coordinating and liaising with suppliers and subcontractors on multi-disciplined projects around NZ.

Finance

Our Finance Graduates aren’t confined to the office, having plenty of opportunities to work on-site. They are exposed to all aspects of finance including accounting, payment batching, and subcontractor and supplier invoice processing.

Commercial

Be exposed to all commercial and procurement aspects of our business including developing and managing procurement strategies, preparation of subcontract and supplier agreements, and participating in negotiations.

HSEQ

An integral part of the team, HSEQ Graduates provide guidance on health, safety, environmental, sustainability and quality matters. You will gain an understanding of our industry’s regulatory requirements whilst driving a positive culture.

Pacific Islands

Based in NZ, Graduates will provide support to our Pacific Island project teams. We are currently looking for a Graduate Estimator to join our New Business sector and Graduate Engineers specialising in either, civil, structural and electrical.

What can you expect as a McConnell Dowell Graduate?

A fast-tracked career

A structured two-year program: Designed to accelerate your development and unlock your full potential.

Hands-On Site Experience (Operations Graduates): Work on the ground with expert teams across diverse sectors including marine, civil, pipelines, tunnelling, and more.

Dedicated Mentorship: Be guided by experienced industry professionals who support your journey every step of the way.

Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gain insights across Design, Estimating, HSEQ, Commercial, Procurement, and HR – broadening your career horizons.

Diverse Project Rotations: Rotate through various projects and disciplines to build a strong, versatile foundation in construction and engineering.

Click the picture to read about David’s journey

Culture and Career Development

Stay Ahead with In-House Training: Access exclusive in-house training sessions designed to fast-track your development and sharpen your skills from day one.

Connect. Share. Grow.: Join our Graduate Forums — annual events designed to spark collaboration, share insights, and help you thrive as part of a strong graduate community.

A Culture Like No Other: We reckon we’re one of the best places to work in New Zealand and the Pacific — and once you’re in, you’ll see why. Supportive, welcoming, and full of good vibes.

Grow Without Borders: Your career doesn’t stop at one location. With us, you’ll have the opportunity to work across the Pacific, Australia, and Southeast Asia — expanding your skills and horizons along the way.

No Two Days the Same: Work on complex, varied, and impactful projects that challenge your thinking, expand your expertise, and keep things interesting. Real-world experience that counts.

Additional benefits

We’ve Got You Covered: Medical insurance for you and your immediate whānau — all fully covered for eligible staff. Your health matters to us.

Boost Your Future: We go above and beyond with 6% employer contributions to KiwiSaver for those eligible. It’s just one more way we invest in your future.

Celebrate in Style: Take your graduation day off — fully paid — to enjoy the moment with your family and friends. It’s on us!

Backed by the Best: Your Engineering New Zealand membership? Fully paid by McConnell Dowell to support your professional growth and networking.

Gear Up for Success: From helmets to high-vis — we’ll kit you out with top-quality PPE gear, so you’re safe, compliant, and job-site ready without spending a cent.

Key dates

Applications for our 2027 intake close on 20 May 2026.

Go to our careers page and select “Graduate” in the category search.