Changing laws and construction boom increase demand for scaffolders
Opportunities for scaffolders are good due to:
- the 2016 Health and Safety at Work Act, which means that most multi-floor building work is likely to need scaffolding to ensure workers' safety
- high turnover of new trainee scaffolders because of the very demanding physical work – over 60% of scaffolders are under 35
- a construction boom, particularly in Auckland, that is predicted to be worth $42 billion
- building work needed to upgrade leaky homes, earthquake-prone buildings and other structures, such as bridges.
There are not enough scaffolders to meet the demand for their services. As a result, scaffolder appears on Immigration New Zealand's construction and infrastructure skill shortage list. This means the Government is actively encouraging skilled scaffolders from overseas to work in New Zealand.
According to the Census, 3,057 scaffolders worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Long-term outlook best for highly qualified scaffolders who can travel for work
Like many building jobs, this role can be affected by economic conditions. A downturn in the economy can lower demand for scaffolders, especially those with fewer qualifications.
You can increase your chances of regular work by:
- doing further training and completing the New Zealand Certificate in Scaffolding (Level 5)
- being prepared to travel to heavy industry sites during their maintenance sessions, when demand for temporary scaffolders is high
- having a heavy vehicle licence.
Scaffolders needed in oil and gas industry
Scaffolders are also needed for work on power stations and offshore oil and gas platforms, such as Marsden Point and Taranaki's Maui gas field.
Most scaffolders work for private companies
Scaffolders mainly work for private scaffolding companies. These range from businesses with just a few workers to nationwide companies that employ hundreds of staff.
