Roadmarking assistant vacancies common
Although roadmarker is a relatively small occupation, chances of getting a job as an entry-level roadmarker assistant doing traffic control are good because:
- turnover of roadmarker assistants is high as the work is demanding and dangerous, especially on open road and motorways
- maintenance and resealing of existing roads means constant demand for roads to be remarked
- improvements to roads and motorways mean existing roads may need to be remarked multiple times during an upgrade, as lanes shift to allow work to take place
- the Government's emphasis on road safety, meaning high demand for new road markings, including high performance markings and rumble strips.
Linemarker (another name for roadmarker) will appear on Immigration New Zealand's Construction and Infrastructure Sector Agreement in early 2024. This means the Government is actively encouraging these skilled workers from overseas to work in New Zealand.
Few jobs for skilled roadmarkers
It can be difficult to get a job as a skilled roadmarker operator as there are few positions available and staff turnover is low.
According to the Census, 396 roadmarkers worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Seasonal opportunities for roadmarkers
Roadmarkers tend to have more work in summer when temperatures are warmer and roads are dry, and less over winter, so contractors usually take on more roadmarkers between September and May.
Working as a roadmarker assistant on a casual basis during the busy summer months is a good way of gaining experience and can lead to a permanent position.
Versatility may help your chances of finding work
When the weather is too cold or wet for roadmarking, companies that do other roading construction work may employ roadmarkers to perform other duties. Having a heavy vehicle licence or skill using heavy machinery may help your chances of finding full-time work.
Small range of employers
Roadmarking assistants are usually employed through labour hire companies.
Roadmarkers are mostly employed by Downer, Fulton Hogan and Coastline Markers.
Some roadmarkers working on car parks and sports courts are self-employed.
