Careers advice

6 good graduate jobs available in Aoteraoa New Zealand

Looking for a good first step?

Last updated: 12 December 2023

If you’re coming to the end of your studies, ka pai. We know how stressful studying can be, particularly if you’re balancing it with working a part-time job.

Once your final exams and assignments are done, along with perhaps a bit of celebration, you’ll be looking to the next hurdle – finding a job. Perhaps you already have a firm idea of the industry sector you’d like to get into. But, perhaps, you don’t.

If you fall into this second group, fear not. Your first job (or, indeed, any job) isn’t going to define your future career. That said, you still want to find something that builds your skills, that you enjoy doing and that, ideally, pays well. To help you start to narrow down some options, here are some good graduate jobs you can find on Trade Me Jobs.

1. Management consulting:

If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career, management consulting might be the right path for you. This field is known for its dynamic and fast-paced nature, making it an attractive choice for many recent graduates.

What makes management consulting a good graduate job:

Learning opportunities: Management consultants work with a diverse range of clients and industries, giving you the chance to learn about various businesses and sectors. This exposure to regular new challenges ensures that you're continually learning and growing.
Problem-solving: Consultants are often tasked with solving complex problems. You'll be expected to think critically, analyse data, and develop innovative solutions, which can be intellectually stimulating and fulfilling.
Networking: Consulting firms provide excellent networking opportunities. You'll interact with high-profile clients and colleagues, which can be valuable for your career development.
High earning potential: Management consultants are often well-paid, especially at top-tier firms. You can expect a competitive salary and possible bonuses based on performance.
Variety: The diverse range of projects in management consulting ensures that your job remains exciting and fresh. You'll tackle different issues, from strategy to operational efficiency.

You'll gain a lot of skills in a graduate management consulting job.

2. Software development:

The demand for skilled software developers in Aotearoa New Zealand is continuously growing. Whether you're passionate about coding or love building tech solutions, a career in software development is an excellent choice.

What makes software development a good graduate job:

High demand: There's a constant need for software developers, ensuring you'll have job security and numerous opportunities to choose from.
Diverse industries: Software developers are needed in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, finance, e-commerce, and more, giving you the flexibility to work in a field that interests you.
Creative freedom: As a developer, you have the chance to create and innovate. Building software from the ground up or improving existing systems allows for a sense of ownership and accomplishment.
Competitive salaries: Software developers are well-compensated, with the potential for even higher earnings as you gain experience and expertise.
Remote work opportunities: Many tech companies offer remote work options, allowing for a work-life balance that suits your preferences.

Software development is an expanding field in Aotearoa.

3. Data Analysis:

The world runs on data, and data analysts play a crucial role in extracting valuable insights from the vast amounts of information available. You’ll find data analysis roles in organisations of all shapes and sizes, from start-ups to government departments, so, if you have an analytical mind and enjoy working with numbers, you’ll find heaps of opportunities out there.

What makes data analysis a good graduate job:

Growing demand: With the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making, data analysts are in high demand across various industries.
Problem-solving: Data analysts are problem solvers who use data to find solutions and make informed decisions. It's a role that requires critical thinking and analytical skills.
Versatility: Data analysts can work in diverse industries, including finance, marketing, healthcare, and technology, giving you the flexibility to choose a field that aligns with your interests.
Continuous learning: Data analysis is a field that continually evolves, providing opportunities for ongoing learning and professional development.
Competitive salaries: Data analysts are well-compensated, and experienced analysts can earn impressive salaries.

4. Marketing and advertising:

If you're creative, love communication, and have an interest in consumer behaviour, a career in marketing and advertising could be an excellent choice for you.

What makes marketing and advertising good graduate jobs:

Creativity: Marketers and advertisers are asked to come up with innovative and engaging campaigns, making it a fulfilling career for creative individuals.
Diverse roles: The field of marketing offers a wide range of roles, from market research and content creation to digital marketing and brand management.
Constant evolution: Marketing and advertising are dynamic fields that adapt to changes in consumer behaviour and technology. This means your job will be challenging and interesting.
Impactful work: Effective marketing and advertising campaigns can significantly influence a company's success, making it a rewarding career choice.
Competitive salaries: Marketing professionals are compensated well, with the potential for salary growth as you gain experience and expertise.

5. Education and teaching:

If you have a passion for education and a desire to shape future generations, a career in teaching in Aotearoa New Zealand can be exceptionally rewarding. Here's what makes education and teaching a great choice for graduates:

Impactful work: Educators in Aotearoa New Zealand play a pivotal role in nurturing young minds and contributing to their growth and development.
Continuous learning: Teaching is a field where learning never stops. You'll have opportunities for professional development and ongoing education.
Variety of roles: Whether you aspire to be a primary school teacher, secondary school teacher, or lecturer in higher education, there are numerous roles to choose from
Cultural experience: Teaching can offer you a unique cultural experience, as you interact with students from many backgrounds.

6. Finance and banking:

The finance and banking sector in Aotearoa New Zealand presents a variety of opportunities for graduates interested in finance, accounting, banking, and related fields. Here's why this sector is an excellent choice:

Diverse roles: Whether you’re interested in corporate finance, accounting, investment banking, or financial planning, the sector offers a broad array of roles.
Competitive salaries: Finance and banking professionals in Aotearoa New Zealand are well-compensated, with ample opportunities for salary growth as you gain experience and qualifications.
Global recognition: Financial qualifications and experience gained here are recognized worldwide, providing international career prospects.

Looking to jump onto the career ladder?

Search the great range of graduate roles on Trade Me Jobs.

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Author

Al Hall

Al Hall is a regular contributor at Trade Me Jobs and Trade Me Property. He’s dedicated to helping people succeed in their aspirations to find their dream job and place to live.