Structural Engineer - Seismic Retrofit Work

HarperSmith; Auckland; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

HarperSmith is seeking an experienced Structural Engineer in New Zealand to lead seismic strengthening for existing buildings within a specialist team. You will own design and construction phases, delivering practical, buildable outcomes on complex projects.

You’ll be heavily involved in construction monitoring, working with contractors, architects, and stakeholders to ensure upgrades meet high standards and NZ seismic requirements.

Qualifications

• Be/track record in seismic strengthening of existing buildings.
• Experience with NZ seismic design standards and compliance.
• Strong communication across technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead seismic strengthening design for existing structures.
• Carry out regular site visits and oversee construction activities.
• Ensure works align with design intent, specifications, and compliance requirements.
• Work with architects, contractors, and councils.
• Review drawings and provide technical guidance during construction.
• Prepare clear, detailed progress and quality reports.
• Provide practical advice on construction methodologies and sequencing.
• Contribute to a strong safety culture across sites.

Skills

Seismic design

Construction monitoring

Stakeholder communication

NZ standards compliance

Project delivery

Education

BE (Civil) with structural focus

CPEng (or near)

Tools

Structural analysis software

BIM environments

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

An established and highly respected structural consultancy is seeking an experienced Structural Engineer with a strong background in seismic retrofit and existing buildings.
This is a key role within a specialist team focused on strengthening and upgrading some of New Zealand’s most technically challenging and historically significant structures. You will take ownership across both design and construction phases, ensuring practical, buildable outcomes on complex projects.
You will be heavily involved in construction monitoring, working closely with contractors, architects, and stakeholders to ensure seismic upgrade works are delivered to a high standard.

What You’ll Bring

• BE (Civil) with a structural focus
• CPEng (or very close) in New Zealand
• 5+ years’ NZ consultancy experience
• Strong background in existing buildings and seismic strengthening
• Proven experience in construction monitoring and site-based delivery
• Solid understanding of NZ seismic design standards and compliance
• Experience working alongside contractors on complex builds
• Strong communication skills across technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Familiarity with structural analysis tools and BIM environments
• Commercial awareness and understanding of consulting project delivery

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver seismic strengthening design for existing structures
• Carry out regular site visits and oversee construction activities
• Ensure works align with design intent, specifications, and compliance requirements
• Work closely with project teams including architects, contractors, and councils
• Review drawings and provide technical guidance during construction
• Prepare clear, detailed reporting on progress and quality
• Provide practical advice on construction methodologies and sequencing
• Contribute to a strong safety culture across all project sites