Hawkins Graduates and Cadets

Hawkins; Auckland; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm in New Zealand is seeking candidates for their 2026 Cadet & Graduate Programme. This full-time, permanent role offers hands-on experience and structured training in various construction disciplines. Ideal candidates should be recent graduates in construction-related fields or possess relevant trade certificates. Join a team that values collaboration and opportunity for career progression.

Benefits

Generous employee benefits

Tailored training and development pathways

Collaborative culture

Qualifications

• Recently completed an industry-relevant tertiary qualification.
• Passionate about a career in Construction.
• Practical, hands-on team player.
• Previous work experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Gain hands-on experience working alongside talented teams.
• Participate in structured rotations through key disciplines.
• Develop skills in various construction management areas.

Skills

Communication & Relationship Management

Health, Safety & Environment

Site Operations Management

Planning & Programming

Quality Assurance & Risk Management

Commercial Management

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Education

Industry-relevant tertiary qualification in Construction Management or Engineering

Relevant Trade Certificate

Job description

Overview

Applications Now Open - 2026 Hawkins Cadet & Graduate Programme

Are you ready to launch your career in construction? Hawkins is now accepting applications for our 2026 Cadet and Graduate Programme, with opportunities available in Auckland, Waikato/BOP, and Wellington.

What To Expect

Join us and be part of a team that's shaping the future of New Zealand. This full time, permanent role offers an excellent opportunity to launch your career. Initially you'll join our team as part of our two-year Cadet and Graduate programme, where you'll gain hands-on experience working alongside our talented teams to delivery exceptional projects that truly make a difference in our communities. This two-year programme is just the beginning of your journey with Hawkins. After completion, you'll have the opportunity to progress into roles such as Foreman, Quantity Surveyor, Site Engineer and Services Engineer.

Our Cadet Development Plan offers structured rotations through key disciplines, exposing you to a wide range of experiences to help you discover and shape your ideal career path. With a mix of on-site and in-class learning experiences, you'll learn about:

• Communication & Relationship Management
• Engineering & Temporary Works
• Health, Safety & Environment
• Site Operations Management
• Planning & Programming
• Quality Assurance & Risk Management
• Commercial Management
• Estimating & Tendering
• Design & Innovation
• Building Services

At Hawkins, we work hard to support and develop our people. We expect the same effort in return. Do you have what it takes? We are looking for people who:

• Have either recently completed an industry-relevant tertiary qualification, ideally in Construction Management, Engineering or have a relevant Trade Certificate.
• Are passionate about developing a career in Construction with a pathway of site operations
• New Zealand/Australian citizens or permanent residents
• Are practical, hands-on, team players who are keen to learn
• Have some previous work experience - or an excellent attitude!
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Why Hawkins

Hawkins is a leader in delivering complex and challenging construction projects, offering you the opportunity to grow your career alongside some of the best in the industry. Enjoy generous employee benefits, tailored training and development pathways, a culture of collaboration and innovation.

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application with a cover letter, CV, and academic transcripts (if relevant) to be considered for our 2026 intake.

For more about Hawkins, please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HawkinsNZ, www.linkedin.com/company/hawkins-group or view our website www.hawkins.co.nz