Cadet

Higgins; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid training

Learning plan

Rotational program

Job summary

Higgins is launching a Cadet Programme in civil construction in New Zealand. No experience? No problem—you’ll be paid while you learn and build real skills on job sites during a 12-month rotation through key workstreams.

Starting with a week-long induction in Auckland, you’ll rotate through Asphalt surfacing, Traffic management, Road maintenance and Chip sealing, gaining safety and technical capabilities while following a personalised learning plan.

Qualifications

• No experience required—great attitude matters most.
• Rotational 12-month program across multiple workstreams.

Responsibilities

• Complete a week-long induction in Auckland.
• Rotate through Asphalt surfacing, Traffic management, Road maintenance and Chip sealing.
• Develop safety, technical and everyday work skills while following a learning plan.

Skills

Positive attitude

Willingness to learn

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 16th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Kickstart Your Career in Civil Construction - Earn, Learn and Grow with Higgins

No experience? No problem! The Higgins Cadet Programme is your chance to build a real career in infrastructure and civil construction – and get paid while you do it.

Why Join?

• Be part of a supportive, hands-on team
• Build real skills on the job and get paid while you learn
• Follow a personalised learning plan
• Discover long-term career opportunities

Who We’re Looking For

• School leavers or those thinking of leaving early
• No qualifications needed – just a great attitude!
• Based in Auckland, Waikato, Tauranga, Wellington or Christchurch
• Ready to start on the 2nd of November 2026

How The Programme Works

Your journey starts with a week-long induction in Auckland – travel and accommodation are covered. Then, over 12 months in your home region, you’ll rotate through key workstreams:

Asphalt surfacing

Traffic management

Road maintenance

Chip sealing

Each rotation lasts around eight to ten weeks, giving you hands-on experience across the business and a chance to discover what you enjoy most. You’ll build safety, technical and everyday work skills.

How You’ll Be Supported

Managers and supervisors will guide your day-to-day learning, Buddies: Team members who model best practice will support you on the job and Career Coaches will help you plan your future and navigate development.

Where It Leads

After completing all four–five rotations, you’ll move to the workstream where you shine brightest. You’ll keep building experience and you’ll also have the opportunity to earn the NZQA Level 3 Certificate in Infrastructure Works – a nationally recognised qualification. You’ll also be on track to earn the NZQA Level 3 Certificate in Infrastructure Works

Higgins is a leading roading and civil infrastructure company in New Zealand. We are on a dynamic growth path with people at the heart of what we do every day.

Higgins is committed to a drug-free workplace. The successful applicants will be required to pass pre-employment drug and alcohol testing along with a health check - you’ll need to be fit for work!

Applications close Tuesday 22nd of September 2026