5 Best American jobs in New Zealand 2023
Are you from America? Are you in need of American jobs in New Zealand? Guess what? You are on the right page.
Getting American jobs in New Zealand is now a simple task unlike before. This is good news, right?
However, you need a guide with a simple method to get and know the available American jobs in New Zealand.
All the information an American needs to know to find work in New Zealand is right here in this article.
Not only will you find compelling arguments for seizing these opportunities as soon as they present themselves, but you will also find that you cannot wait.
Meanwhile, we must first determine if Americans can apply for and get jobs in New Zealand.
Afterward, we’ll coast down to the topic of American jobs in New Zealand.
Our top recommendations for American jobs in New Zealand follow.
Can a US citizen work and live in New Zealand?
The answer is a resounding yes! To live and work in New Zealand as a U.S. citizen is completely possible.
New Zealand is an attractive employment option for people worldwide, including the United States.
As an American, there are many ways to find work in New Zealand.
You can apply for a work visa, become a permanent resident, use online job boards, or even take advantage of a working holiday program.
Please read on to learn the specifics of how all of these strategies work.
Any of the above methods can help you find American jobs in New Zealand.
What is the minimum wage in New Zealand?
The following employees, who are 16 years of age or older, are subject to the minimum pay rates as of April 1, 2022:
1) The hourly minimum wage for adults is $21.20
For workers above the age of 16, this is the salary that New Zealand firms utilize the most frequently.
2) Minimum Pay for New Hires: $16.96 Per Hour
Employees 16 to 19 years old who are just starting in the workforce are affected by this. To use this salary rate, nevertheless, there are some conditions.
3) $16.96 per hour is the minimum wage for training
Employees who have completed the necessary industry training to become qualified and are 20 years of age or older are covered by this. To use this salary rate, nevertheless, there are some conditions.
What are the easiest jobs to get in New Zealand as an American?
- Construction Worker
- Bartender
- Picker or Packer
- Brewery Worker
- Farming Hand
Why do U.S citizens search for American Jobs in New Zealand?
Here are some convincing arguments for you if you’re reading this post to find out whether New Zealand is a decent area for an American to obtain employment.
Only to be fair, I won’t just give you the advantages.
It is best to independently analyze the benefits and drawbacks of working in New Zealand so that you can decide what is best for you.
The benefit of getting American jobs in New Zealand
- Amazing natural scenery abounds in New Zealand.
- The country also boasts excellent climatic conditions.
- As a result of its low crime rate, New Zealand is one of the best countries in which to look for work if you are an American citizen.
- The population density is low compared to other countries, allowing for unimpeded traffic in most areas.
- Everyone in New Zealand receives the same respect. While there is a large income gap, no clear class distinctions can be seen.
What are the disadvantages of working in New Zealand?
- Bugs thrive in New Zealand, especially mosquitoes and sandflies.
- There is a high risk of sunburn and skin cancer due to exposure to UV rays penetrating through a hole in the ozone layer above New Zealand.
- In New Zealand, it is uncommon to have the kind of hectic schedule that so many young people, especially students, enjoy.
- Despite the government’s assistance, the cost of dental care in New Zealand is extremely high.
- In addition, the cost of living is extremely high in cities like Auckland.
Now let’s talk about occupations in demand in New Zealand currently
Fewer than five million people are living in New Zealand. Consequently, it may be challenging to find work in this unique area.
If you have experience in a field where New Zealand is experiencing a skills shortage, you will give yourself a better chance of being hired. Curious as to what those abilities are.
To see if your skill set is in demand in New Zealand, go here. This quick and easy internet resource can tell you if your chosen profession is in demand right now.
For jobs that have been looking for qualified people for a while, check out the long-term skill shortage list. Jobs like construction project manager, electrical engineering technician, multimedia specialist (film animator), and food technologist are all examples.
Jobs that require qualified people urgently are included on the “acute skills shortage list.” These are also positions New Zealanders don’t want.
Then, which occupations are the most desired? Please consider applying if you have relevant work experience in fields such as Agriculture and Forestry (Arborist, Apiarist, Beef Cattle Farmer, etc.), Engineering (Mechanical Engineering Technician, Civil Engineering Draughtsperson, etc.), Trades (Baker, Bricklayer, Carpenter, etc.), and many more.
How can I get American jobs in New Zealand?
As was previously stated, American citizens have a few options when it comes to getting American jobs in New Zealand.
Work visas, permanent residency, online recruitment platforms, and working holiday visas.
Any of the choices you made are legitimate and acceptable.
Work visa
A work visa can help Americans looking for work in New Zealand. Nevertheless, you will need employment before you can apply for a work visa.
Now I know the question on your mind: “How can Americans jobs in New Zealand if I am not currently residing there?”
Well, thankfully, the internet has made it possible for you to find a plethora of websites that list available jobs in New Zealand.
There is additional paperwork to fill out to obtain a work visa, but you can do that after you’ve been hired by the company.
Resident work visa
With a resident work visa, you can live and work in New Zealand as a permanent resident, giving you access to the full range of public services.
After 24 months with a Work to Residence Visa, you are qualified to apply for the Residence from Work Visa.
However, you must be younger than 55 to qualify.
The second avenue of entry is through the skilled migrant program.
Eligibility is based on age, work experience, qualifications, and an offer of skilled employment.
Working holiday visa
You can get a work permit to work in New Zealand for a short time with a temporary or working holiday visa.
Only those between the ages of 18 and 35 qualify for the Working Holiday Visa.
This work visa allows you to stay in New Zealand for between 12 and 23 months.
Once you’ve established yourself in New Zealand through temporary employment, you can apply for residency.
Employment Agencies
One last place to look for work in New Zealand if you’re an American is through employment agencies.
New Zealand is home to a wide variety of staffing agencies.
These staffing agencies exist to aid businesses in conducting preliminary interviews with potential new hires.
You can find recruitment firms that excel at selecting candidates for both generalist and specialized roles and roles specific to particular industries.
Immigrants, US citizens, students, disabled people, and the elderly have other options for finding jobs in New Zealand.
Therefore, once you’ve been offered the job, the company’s responsibility is to assist you with the visa application process.
You can use these employment agencies if you are a citizen of the United States.
You can sign up with as many employment agencies as you like.
After you land a job, your new employer will be responsible for covering the cost of these representatives.
Interaction without intermediaries
The following is a helpful hint that you should take into account.
It is recommended that you contact the company directly if you are looking for work in New Zealand.
Because not all openings are publicized.
Those organizations will be more inclined to help you if you reach out to them, so don’t hesitate to take advantage of this.
Communication via email or the telephone can serve this purpose.
Not only will non-advertising businesses appreciate your method, but advertising businesses will as well.
Even if they don’t directly require your expertise, they may be able to put you in touch with groups that do.
Before making that call from your home country, be sure to check the time difference between New Zealand and your own.
This will allow you to contact them during appropriate business hours.
Whether by phone or video chat, you can get in touch with a business (if given access).
In many cases, a face-to-face interview is preferable to a written application when applying for a job.
Available American jobs in New Zealand
As an American, you can apply for jobs in New Zealand at any time.
New Zealand employers look for candidates with relevant education and work experience.
Every year, New Zealand hires a mix of locals and internationals, including some Americans.
High-skilled workers will fill the vast majority of job openings.
Many companies are indeed looking to hire experts in fields like engineering and information technology, but they also need people with more general backgrounds in fields like business administration and management.
Furthermore, I have compiled a list of the top American jobs in New Zealand that are available.
American Diplomat
Becoming an American diplomat is at the top of our list of possible careers for Americans in New Zealand. Thus, if you are considering a career as an American diplomat in New Zealand, you should read this.
The United States Embassy in Wellington and the United States Consulate General in Auckland each have hiring cycles roughly twice a year.
The Foreign Service Officer Test is given at these Embassies at least twice a year, and passing it qualifies you for a position in New Zealand.
Find out more here.
Agricultural sector:
The agricultural industry is a major employer in New Zealand, particularly for U.S. citizens.
New Zealand agricultural jobs are open to American farmers.
The cost of living is reduced here because you will be provided with a place to stay and paid for your efforts.
Today’s agricultural listing can be found here.
Ski Instructor
Do you hold both American citizenship and professional skier credentials?
If so, why not put your skills to good use by becoming a ski instructor in New Zealand?
As long as you have a genuine interest in the sport and are willing to put in the time and effort, you can take the necessary courses by becoming a certified ski instructor even though you’re not a professional skier.
If you have the qualifications to become a ski instructor, you can find work right away in New Zealand.
You can get some information about it here.
Office Administrator at Southern Cross Flutes:
This position is ideal for you if you’d like to oversee a highly productive creative team while also handling a sizable clientele.
The Southern Cross Flutes company is run by artisans and sells wooden flutes in the Native American style.
You’d have fun at this company because of the diverse clientele they serve.
You can make between $20 and $29.99 per hour doing this as a side gig.
Explore the details of this position here.
Digital Project Manager
Full-time employment opportunities with Time Zone One in the Canterbury/Christchurch area (TZO).
U.S. citizens with a background in programming and Project Management are encouraged to apply for this position in the field of Information & Communication Technology.
If you’re a foreigner in New Zealand, you just need to declare your work rights.
Find out more about the chance you have here.
Fiserv cybersecurity consultant
New Zealand is looking to hire a cybersecurity professional with relevant experience.
Among the Fortune 500’s most successful businesses, Fiserv has made its name in the financial technology and payment-enabling space.
This position is full-time and located in the heart of Auckland.
Bachelor’s degree or high school diploma is required for this position.
You can get some information about it here.
Burger Geek’s Sous-chef
You seem like you might be a cook, right? Do you enjoy performing culinary miracles?
If this is the case, a job in New Zealand’s culinary industry might not be so bad.
Make $22–$25 per hour making American smash burgers in a fun kitchen full of awesome coworkers.
Technician, Classic and Custom Cars
Automotive Employment (NZ) Ltd is seeking an artistic artisan.
Come work with some of the best auto mechanics in Auckland, Manukau, and East Auckland.
You’ll be milling, lathing, fabricating, and assembling car parts to create restored and one-of-a-kind rides.
Careers in the Healthcare Field
Numerous Americans have found successful careers in New Zealand’s healthcare industry. New Zealand requires a large number of medical professionals to achieve the OECD average.
For this reason, healthcare positions in New Zealand are open to applicants from the United States.
There is a high demand for medical professionals, including physicians, nurses, dentists, and veterinary technicians, as well as another 36 specialties.
There are openings for these positions in both government and private hospitals.
If you’re qualified in the healthcare field and a citizen of the United States, you should be able to apply for one of the openings.
You can get some information about it here.
Senior Communications and Marketing Adviser—Centers of Asia-Pacific Excellence (CAPE)
Working as a senior communications and marketing adviser at the Victoria University of Wellington will allow you to steer the business, education, and public communications at the institution.
Also, you will help people in New Zealand learn more about Asia and the Pacific and improve their language skills.
That way, you’ll be setting up New Zealand for success in the Asia-Pacific market.
People from the United States who are good at marketing and public relations can apply for this job in New Zealand.
Here is more information about this job.
Math instructor
Teachers do have jobs, and this is another American job in New Zealand that you should think about.
You can already have a job waiting for you in New Zealand if you are an excellent math instructor who can motivate your students.
Here, you can find out more about this chance.
Tips to apply for American jobs in New Zealand
Take advantage of New Zealand’s resources for finding work, writing a résumé tailored to the area, and acquiring necessary visas and permissions.
Keep your resume fresh and updated for each position you apply for.
To improve your odds of getting hired, you should make use of your professional network and personally approach potential employers.
You should give some thought to how you might best highlight your international experience to the prospective employer.
Best jobs for foreigners in New Zealand
Software engineering is a popular profession amongst internationals in New Zealand. As well as being one of the top careers for non-native speakers of English, this is also one of the most sought-after computer-related specializations.
Both in-house software development and start-up work in the software design, development, and sales industry are viable options here.
With the growth of the industry, cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Dunedin all have a plethora of job openings.
Locations to consider on the South Island include Nelson, Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill, Queenstown, Rotorua, and Taupo.
Art There is a wide variety of art institutions in New Zealand, including museums, galleries, festivals, and more.
More details on American jobs in New Zealand
For many reasons, New Zealand is a favorite destination for travelers from throughout the world. The natural splendor of New Zealand attracts visitors from all over the world.
It’s true; one of my college fraternity brothers promptly left for New Zealand after receiving his diploma. He had so much fun that he hated to go. If I could, I would take a ski vacation in New Zealand every year.
To begin your search for American jobs in New Zealand, I recommend you visit the New Zealand Government portal and Careers. govt.NZ first. They serve as wonderful tools for the job.
The links below are some good places to start looking for work in New Zealand if you are an international candidate.
How much money do you need in the bank to immigrate to New Zealand?
When moving to New Zealand, it is recommended that you have at least three months’ worth of living expenses saved up. Housing, food, and transportation will likely account for most of your budget. For instance, before moving to New Zealand, we set – up 10,000 British pounds, which was enough to see us through a little more than three months without income.
Our good fortune in having the opportunity to stay with Mathew’s (my partner’s) grandmother for three months allowed us to get situated and take our time looking for a permanent residence.
Not everyone can rely on friends and relatives to help them financially in the first few months after arriving. When budgeting for a month in New Zealand, a couple may expect to spend around 2,000 GBP on necessities.
If you are estimating that you will be living in a city center, then that amount will be larger. That sum doesn’t even factor in the cost of moving, which can add up quickly when you factor in things like a security deposit, new furniture, and a car rental.
Budgeting for the first month in your new home will require saving 4,000 GBP, while the subsequent months will require saving 2,000 GBP.
Can I go to New Zealand without a job offer?
It is possible to migrate to New Zealand without a job offer, but the process will be much more difficult because only a limited number of people will qualify for enough points on their Expression of Interest without a job offer.
It helps if you have a high level of education, can study in New Zealand, have extensive work experience, or are pursuing education and employment in a field where there is a shortage of qualified workers.
Keep in mind that as of October 12, 2016, Immigration New Zealand increased the Skilled Migrant Category’s skill point threshold from 140 to 160 points.
They’ve also tightened up on the English language requirements. Immigration New Zealand will now only assess migrants with 160 or more skill points.
Apply for a work visa, ideally one that corresponds to a skill that is in short supply in the country.
Without a job offer, it is much more challenging to immigrate to New Zealand. Maybe you could apply for a work visa and then for residency later.
Where can I get a job in New Zealand?
The best approach to finding a job can vary greatly depending on what type of work you’re searching for and your current professional standing.
You can then focus your search on specific organizations, or make use of your professional network to narrow it further. But, browsing and searching employment websites is a wonderful place to start to get a feel for the positions out there. For starters, check out these places:
Conclusion
This is an essential resource for any American citizen thinking about working in New Zealand and for those who want to know about American jobs in New Zealand.
Having read this, you should have a good idea of what it takes to get American jobs in New Zealand as well as the advantages and disadvantages.
You now know the ins and outs of finding work in New Zealand despite being an American citizen.
Please share this post with other Americans who are also interested in working in New Zealand.
FAQ
Is New Zealand friendly to Americans?
Is New Zealand a safe country? is a more appropriate query. There is no room for doubt; the answer is yes. As a bonus, the nation is incredible, lovely, entertaining, informative, and welcoming.
Can Americans live permanently in New Zealand?
The answer is yes. There is a wide variety of visa categories for people seeking temporary, part-time, and full-time employment. If you have been working in the nation for a while and want to stay permanently or if you want to move there to be with family, you can apply for a residence visa.
Does New Zealand have a high tax rate?
New Zealand is tied for 39th place on a table of the highest taxed countries in the world due to its top income tax rate of 39% (i.e. before Willis cuts it even further). This is based on charts comparing global rates for income tax, sales tax, and corporate tax.
What is the minimum wage in New Zealand
According to Employment. govt.NZ
There is a bare minimum that must be paid to workers in exchange for their time and effort. Anyone receiving below the minimum wage should contact 0800 20 90 20 to report it in a safe environment.
What jobs are in high demand in New Zealand?
Nurse
Administrative Assistant
Child Welfare Worker
Psychologist
Machine Operator
What are the easiest jobs to get in New Zealand
Construction
Bartender
Picker
Brewery Worker
Farming Hand