Mechanical Design Engineer Relocate to New Zealand Visa Support

Caliber Design is looking for experienced Mechanical Design Engineers who are interested in relocating to Christchurch, New Zealand. If New Zealand is somewhere you have considered living, this is a chance to make the move while continuing to work in a hands-on engineering role. Caliber is a New Zealand engineering consultancy with more than 85 engineers and has worked with more than 300 clients across manufacturing, aerospace, food processing, medical, marine and heavy industry.

The role involves working directly with client engineering teams, usually on projects lasting around three to six months. The work varies from project to project, including designing machinery or industrial equipment, working on product development, or contributing to larger manufacturing or capital projects. You remain permanently employed by Caliber while gaining experience across different companies, industries and engineering problems. This role would suit someone who enjoys practical mechanical design work and wants variety without moving away from detailed engineering.

What we're looking for:

• around 5+ years of mechanical, machine or product-design experience
• strong hands-on CAD and detailed-design experience
• experience with SolidWorks or Inventor
• a recognised Mechanical Engineering qualification
• practical experience with machinery, manufacturing, industrial equipment or product development
• the ability to work independently
• good communication skills and confidence working directly with clients and engineering teams

Experience with FEA and engineering analysis is useful. Experience as a Project Engineer in manufacturing, factories, processing plants or heavy industry would also be an advantage. Caliber is particularly interested in engineers who still want to be involved in real design and engineering work rather than moving entirely into management.

Moving to Christchurch:

The role is permanently based in Christchurch, on New Zealand's South Island. Christchurch has a strong engineering and manufacturing base and offers relatively manageable commuting, with easy access to mountains, ski fields, mountain biking, hiking, beaches and the wider South Island. You don't need to have already decided to move to New Zealand before applying. If the idea interests you, apply and we can talk you through the role, Caliber, Christchurch and what the relocation process would involve.

Visa and relocation support:

Caliber has considerable experience hiring engineers internationally and can support suitable candidates. Depending on your qualifications and circumstances, there may also be a pathway toward New Zealand residence. Caliber can also connect successful candidates with engineers who have already relocated to New Zealand and can share practical advice on the move.

Salary and benefits:

Typical earnings are NZD $100,000–$130,000 per year including overtime, depending on experience. Benefits include:

• time and a half for hours worked over 40 per week
• structured learning and development
• flexible and hybrid working where project requirements allow
• regular technical and social events
• support from a national network of experienced engineers

How to apply:

Vouch is managing the international recruitment process on behalf of Caliber Design. Apply with your CV. We'll review your engineering experience first. If there looks to be a potential fit, we'll contact you directly to discuss the role and the practicalities of relocating to Christchurch. Strong candidates may then be invited to build a Vouch profile to provide Caliber with additional professional evidence alongside their CV.