Building Compliance Cadet

SGS; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

SGS in Christchurch is seeking a Building Compliance Cadet to join our Building Compliance Services team. The role focuses on monthly owner inspections and BWOF support, developing technical capability while working closely with owners, managers and site reps.

Ideal candidates bring 2-3 years in building, NZ codes knowledge, strong organisational skills, and a customer‑focused approach. A NZ driver’s licence and good digital literacy are essential for success.

Qualifications

• At least 2-3 years' experience within the building industry.
• Understanding of NZ building codes, regulations, and industry practices.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
• Ability to plan workload and meet deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Customer-focused approach and ability to build trusted relationships.
• Good computer literacy and confidence using digital systems.
• A proactive, practical approach to problem-solving.
• A full and unrestricted New Zealand driver's licence.

Responsibilities

• Conduct monthly owner inspections in accordance with industry and SGS standards.
• Assist with annual BWOF inspections.
• Prepare accurate inspection reports, certificates, and supporting documentation.
• Build strong relationships with clients and provide practical compliance guidance.
• Identify and communicate building defects and non-compliance issues.
• Collaborate with owners and site representatives to resolve minor compliance matters.
• Coordinate inspection schedules with customers and the administration team.
• Complete allocated inspections and reporting within required timeframes.
• Support other inspectors during peak inspection periods as required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of SGS quality systems and procedures.
• Identify opportunities to grow client relationships and support business development.

Skills

Customer-focused

Strong communication

Organisational skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Problem-solving

Driver's licence (NZ)

Tools

Office software

Job description

We are SGS - the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 96,000 employees operate a network of over 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.

Job Description

Help keep New Zealand buildings safe, compliant, and operating at their best.

SGS is the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. We are recognised globally for quality and integrity, providing trusted services across a diverse range of industries.

We are seeking a motivated Building Compliance Cadet to join our Building Compliance Services team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with building industry experience who enjoys working independently, building strong customer relationships, and developing specialist expertise in building compliance.

What You'll Be Doing

As a Building Compliance Inspector, you will undertake monthly owner inspections independently and assist with annual Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) inspections under supervision while you develop your technical capability.

You will work closely with building owners, property managers, and site representatives to identify compliance issues, provide practical guidance, and help ensure buildings remain safe for occupants.

This role offers a great mix of site-based inspections, customer interaction, technical problem-solving, and reporting responsibilities.

Keys Responsibilities:

• Conduct monthly owner inspections in accordance with industry and SGS standards.
• Assist with annual Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) inspections.
• Prepare accurate inspection reports, certificates, and supporting documentation.
• Build strong relationships with clients and provide practical compliance advice.
• Identify and communicate building defects and non-compliance issues.
• Work with building owners and site representatives to resolve minor compliance matters.
• Coordinate inspection schedules with customers and the administration team.
• Complete allocated inspections and reporting within required timeframes.
• Support other inspectors during peak inspection periods as required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of SGS quality systems and procedures.
• Actively identify opportunities to grow client relationships and support business development initiatives.

Qualifications

You may currently be working in facilities management, property management, fire protection, HVAC, plumbing, building services, construction, or a related building industry role and are looking for your next career step.

To be successful, you will ideally have:

• At least 2-3 years' experience within the building industry.
• An understanding of NZ building codes, regulations, and industry practices.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
• The ability to plan your workload and meet deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• A customer-focused approach and ability to build trusted relationships.
• Good computer literacy and confidence using digital systems.
• A proactive, practical approach to problem-solving.
• A full and unrestricted New Zealand driver's licence.

Experience with BWOF inspections, building compliance, facilities management, fire systems, or IQP-related work would be advantageous but is not essential.

Additional Information

At SGS, we'll support your professional development through industry training, and mentoring as you work towards obtaining IQP (Independently Qualified Person) status. You'll gain hands-on experience in BWOF inspections, building compliance, and potentially Backflow Prevention testing, developing highly sought-after skills in a growing and specialised field.

If you're looking for a role that combines technical inspections, customer interaction, professional development, and the opportunity to build a specialist career in building compliance, we'd love to hear from you.