1. We are WSP
  2. Careers
  3. WSP Cadetships

Learn, earn and grow

At WSP, our cadetships offer you the chance to gain real-world experience, earn while you learn, and work toward a recognised qualification, setting you up for a rewarding professional journey.



What's in it for you?

img_Cadet Infographic
bg2

Our People share their experiences

img_portrait_Brylee Muir_High Res

Brylee Muir - Team Leader, Construction Management (former cadet)

Brylee shares her progression from a cadetship to her current leadership role.

Why did you join WSP as a cadet?

University didn’t feel like the right fit for me, and I wanted practical experience while studying. The “earn while you learn” approach — and the chance to avoid student loan debt — was a huge drawcard.

How was your cadetship? Highlights?

It was a great experience. I completed my diploma in 2.5 years thanks to the support around me.
I also rotated through several teams in the Napier office, which gave me a broad range of experience and helped me figure out the direction I wanted to take.

How has your career progressed since then?

After finishing my cadetship, I completed my NZDEP and BEngTech through WSP Study Awards. I’ve continued developing both technically and as a people leader.

What do you think the key benefits of the cadetship are for WSP and our professional community?

Cadets bring fresh thinking, new ideas, and diverse perspectives. Their passion for learning lifts the whole team — and helps strengthen our industry.

What advice would you give to a young person considering engineering?

Go for it! There are so many different disciplines to explore and so many pathways to grow your career. It’s an exciting industry to be part of.

img_portrait_Korbin Chwesik 2022

Korbin Chwesik - Survey Cadet

 

Korbin shares his experience as a Cadet Surveyor.


Why did you apply for a WSP cadetship?

I’ve wanted to be a surveyor since I was young and always thought I’d go to university. But by the end of high school, I’d finished Level 3 early and was ready for something new. A close friend at WSP told me about the cadetships, and the idea of learning on the job with industry professionals really appealed to me. It felt like the right path compared to university.

How has the experience been?

Incredibly rewarding. Working with experienced, like‑minded people has strengthened my passion for surveying. The projects I’m involved in have helped me apply what I’m learning and grow both professionally and personally.

Highlights?

Definitely getting to use my course skills on real surveys. It’s satisfying to see how my work contributes directly to client outcomes, and to watch my technical abilities improve as I go.

What areas interest you most?

I enjoy the challenge of the math papers because they relate directly to surveying tasks and help sharpen my technical skills.

What would you say to someone considering surveying?

Give it a go. Surveying is dynamic and rewarding, combining mental agility, physical work, and practical problem‑solving — from CAD processing to field data collection. There’s so much variety, which keeps things exciting.

 

Cadet Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

A. You will meet the entry requirements to study for a New Zealand Diploma (Level 6) in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Technology, or Surveying. You will have at minimum completed your NCEA Level 2 by the end of the year with at least 48 credits at Level 2. You will have an interest and strength in mathematics and science. You will also be legally allowed to drive in New Zealand on your own.

How do I know if I am eligible?

A: We accept our applications online. Applications typically open in August. When open, a link to apply will be available at the top of this webpage. 

What do I need to include in my application?

A: You will need a current copy of your CV and your most recent transcripts (an unofficial copy is acceptable, and we anticipate you will have courses pending results).

What if I am already studying for a diploma in NZ Diploma (Level 6) Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Technology, or Surveying?

A: Our application process is simple. The first step is to complete an application online. Successful candidates will then have an interview with the relevant team. The final step is for successful candidates to be offered a role.

What is the application process?

A: You are welcome to apply for our Cadetship if you are in your first year of study toward a New Zealand Diploma (Level 6) in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Technology, or Surveying.

What Salary does WSP offer?

A: We offer a competitive salary, which varies slightly depending on your level of current qualification.

When will I start working?

A: Our Cadetship begins early in the year before diploma courses begin. There is some flexibility on start date if required, so please be sure to specify your availability in your application.