The highest paying jobs in construction, architecture and engineering 2023 - 2024

- Population growth will place increased pressure on ageing assets, roads, public transport and other infrastructure.
- Momentum towards climate change mitigation will quicken, meaning existing and future infrastructure will need to be adapted.
- Inflation and labour shortages are causing a constrained labour market.
- Digital transformations will begin to be leveraged and integrated in the sector.
For organisations, being aware of the salaries across your industry can help to drive your talent strategies and leave you well-positioned to attract the right talent to your organisation.
The highest paying construction, architecture and engineering jobs in Australia in 2023 - 2024
Construction: Construction manager (up to $320K)
In residential construction, both construction managers and project managers are the highest earning positions in this area, both taking home a typical salary of $190K. As we look at the different professions across residential construction, a site manager averages a salary of $180K, and a foreperson earns $155K.
Engineering: Project manager (up to $255K)
Construction: Design manager (up to $240K)
Construction: Senior estimator (up to $200K)
Estimators across all seniority levels in building construction can be compensated generously, with senior estimators commonly taking home a salary of $150K, although across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and regional NSW and Victoria, that salary can stretch up to $200K. Junior to intermediate estimators can earn a salary of $120K on average.
Engineering: Systems assurance specialists (up to $300K)
Engineering: Principal/Director of design (up to $250K)
Architecture: BIM/CAD manager ($150K)
Architecture: Senior planner (up to $150K)
Find more of Australia’s highest paying jobs
For more information on which jobs pay the most in Australia across other industries, and even more detail on the salaries for construction, architecture and engineering, download the Hays Salary Guide. Our flagship report is full of findings pertinent to employers and candidates making smarter decisions in the world of work and offers an insightful portrait of typical salaries across 28 sectors and industries.
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