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Graduates & Technicians

The recruitment of university and technician graduates is a vital part of our growth strategy.

Each year a significant number of graduates in civil and M&E engineering, environmental planning, architecture, property management, science and other related professions join Opus worldwide and get the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects in a large number of different locations.

Through our exchange programme graduates are given the chance to work on short-term assignments/projects in other Opus offices around the world.

“I’ve been with Opus for 4 months and already I’m off overseas for a conference! - in Rome!” Emily Hodgkinson, Graduate Engineer, Wellington


Opus has a structured development programme that is led by your mentor who is there to support you in your development and in achieving professional registration status.

 

                                                                                   

Alex is a Graduate Structural Engineer at the Cardiff office in the UK.  She joined Opus in 2006 after spending her penultimate summer break from University working for Opus, “The work placement was a huge learning curve for me, I really enjoyed myself and I was able to get a real working insight into the industry.”

Alex is currently building up her experience working on a wide range of projects, “I get plenty of opportunities to be involved in the whole design process.  Most of the projects I’m working on are currently at the design stage, so once they get to construction I’ll have chance to build up experience on site.  I feel really lucky to have the support of the senior engineers at Cardiff who, however busy, are always willing to make time to help and I’m also enjoying getting first hand experience working closely with architects and contractors.”   

Conservation Engineering is the area where Alex’s sights are now set and Opus’ study award scheme is assisting with fees to fund her on a Masters degree in the Conservation of Historic Buildings.  “It’s a great confidence boost and really encouraging that Opus is supporting me in my career development”.

 

Greer has spent the last two years living and working in Thames. "I have really enjoyed my time here and it has been a great place for me to develop my engineering career."  She transferred to Thames from the Auckland Office to get some contract supervision experience. A $4.5m stormwater upgrade in the middle of Thames had just been awarded and there was a position available to do the supervision for that and to work on other projects.

Greer has been involved in a  wide variety of projects in stormwater, wastewater and water supply - from feasibility and consultation to construction.  She has worked closely with clients and has assisted them in their decision making.  She has had opportunities for plenty of responsibility in a well supported environment and has developed her skills in project management.  "By working in a smaller office I've got involved with all elements of a project, where in a larger office these pieces may be done by more specialised or senior staff."

"I’ve been roped into playing touch rugby, indoor and outdoor soccer, and even business house lawn bowls for the Thames Coromandel District Council teams - my office has a great social environment!"