Graduate Civil Engineer - Aviation

About the Company

AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm focused on helping communities and clients solve complex challenges across water, environment, energy, transportation, and buildings. The organisation works across the full project lifecycle, from advisory and planning through design, engineering, program management, and construction management, with the aim of creating durable, sustainable, and resilient outcomes.

The company describes itself as a worldwide team of planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital specialists, program managers, and construction professionals delivering work that makes a measurable difference. It also highlights strong growth opportunities, technical depth, and a culture built around collaboration, respect, and community.

Role Overview

AECOM is hiring a Graduate Civil Engineer to join its Christchurch team. The role sits within a multidisciplinary environment delivering projects for funding agencies, government bodies, highways authorities, and private organisations. The work spans both major and smaller, more detailed assignments, offering exposure to a wide range of infrastructure challenges and delivery stages.

This position includes involvement in civil works connected to road, port, and aviation assets, with opportunities to build experience across design, project delivery, stakeholder coordination, and technical assurance.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to projects from early concept development through to construction and operational phases, with emphasis on major road infrastructure as well as ports and airports.
• Assist with design work, project coordination, stakeholder communication, and site or technical assurance tasks.
• Apply knowledge of soil, asphalt, concrete, geotechnical principles, and pavement design to support project outcomes.
• Help develop practical and sustainable solutions, including approaches that use low-carbon methods and recycled materials in pavement applications.
• Work with multidisciplinary teams to support transport assets across road, port, and aviation networks.
• Take part in delivery activities such as site inspections, testing coordination, and construction support.
• Contribute to projects across New Zealand and Australia while drawing on specialist guidance and broader global technical expertise.

Graduate Program Benefits

• Structured graduate onboarding to help build connections with peers and leaders.
• Early exposure to core consulting skills and professional practice.
• Opportunities to expand your network and deepen industry knowledge.
• Guidance and mentoring from experienced professionals.
• Access to learning from specialists and senior technical experts.
• Flexible work arrangements that support wellbeing and work-life balance.
• Career development support to help prepare for future progression.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• You should be in your final year of study or have already completed a Bachelor’s or Postgraduate degree in Civil Engineering.
• You must have finished your studies before the program begins.
• You need to be able to start by February 2027, with mid-year completion accepted if you can begin by July 2027.
• You must hold full working rights in Australia or New Zealand before applying; student and graduate visas are accepted.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills are important, along with a proactive, adaptable attitude and a professional, integrity-led approach.

Additional Information

The recruitment process includes submitting a single document containing your resume, cover letter, and the latest academic transcript. Shortlisted applicants may then complete an online strength-based assessment, followed by a phone screen with the Early Careers Recruitment team and an in-person interview at a local office.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the vacancy may close earlier than expected once suitable candidates are identified.

Culture, Inclusion, and Work Environment

AECOM says it offers a global environment where employees can grow their careers while working on projects that shape communities and industries. The company promotes access to advanced technology, expert networks, development programs, and a workplace centered on respect, collaboration, and opportunity.

The employer also states that it welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, including people with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and neurodiverse conditions. Adjustments can be requested during the hiring process.

Employment and Onboarding Notes

New hires are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding session at an AECOM office as a condition of employment. The job is based in Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand, and the role is for a full-time onsite position. The job code, business line, business group, strategic business unit, career area, and work model information are also associated with this vacancy.

Business Line: Transportation
Business Group: DCS
Strategic Business Unit: ANZ
Career Area: Engineering
Work Location Model: Hybrid

About AECOM

AECOM presents itself as a global infrastructure leader with deep technical capability and a focus on delivering sustainable, innovative, and resilient solutions. The company notes that it had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025 and references recognition such as being named the world’s top design firm and ranking #1 in Transportation, General Building, and Environmental Engineering by Engineering News-Record in 2025, as well as repeated inclusion in Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies and Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies.

The company also says it offers comprehensive benefits that may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability coverage, paid time off, leave benefits, voluntary benefits, flexible work options, wellbeing resources, employee assistance, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings, and an employee stock purchase plan, depending on employment status.

ReqID: J10154960