"HERA Associate Professor in Structural Steel"

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading University. With over 6000 academic and professional staff supporting over 46,000 students, we are one of NZ’s largest employers.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking an outstanding academic to join the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering as the HERA (Heavy Engineering Research Association) Associate Professor in Structural Steel. This is a unique opportunity to lead innovative research and teaching in structural steel design, with a focus on digital technologies, sustainability, and industry collaboration.

As the HERA Associate Professor, you will:

• Lead a research programme focused on structural steel systems and digital design technologies
• Collaborate with industry partners, including HERA, to deliver impactful research and professional training
• Be an active and collegial member of the department, contributing to a collaborative academic environment through teamwork in teaching, research, and service
• Teach undergraduate and postgraduate courses aligned with structural steel design and emerging technologies and contribute to curriculum development
• Supervise undergraduate and postgraduate research students
• Provide thought leadership and contribute to national and international efforts influencing policy and practice in structural steel design and construction

This is a permanent, 40 hours per week, full-time contract. The salary range for this role is from NZ$162,557 – $180,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.

For more detailed information on the role, accountabilities, and requirements, please review this position description.

Mō tō mātou rōpū | About the team

The Faculty of Engineering and Design is a vibrant hub of innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. With purpose-built facilities and strong industry connections, the faculty supports cutting-edge research and hands-on learning across engineering, architecture, urban planning, and design. The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering offer BE (Honours) degrees accredited by Engineering NZ in both Civil and Structural specialisations, in addition to a wider range of postgraduate taught and research programmes. The department has state of art research laboratories, which include a purpose-built Structures Testing Laboratory in our Newmarket campus that is well equipped for materials, structural systems, and seismic testing. We are New Zealand's top university for Civil and Structural Engineering and ranked 48th in the world by QS subject rankings.

He kōrero mōu | About you

You will be a visionary academic with:

• A PhD in Civil/Structural Engineering
• A strong publication record and experience leading research projects
• Expertise in structural steel design and preferably digital design technologies
• A commitment to teaching excellence and curriculum innovation
• A collaborative spirit and ability to engage with industry and stakeholders
• Professional membership (e.g. CMEngNZ) or eligibility to obtain it is preferred

Diversity is important to us. Growing, maintaining and promoting a diverse team is a top priority. The department is particularly interested in receiving applications from candidates that would complement our expertise and enhance the department’s gender and cultural diversity.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is New Zealand's leading University and maintains significant computational, laboratory, and analytic facilities. Auckland is frequently rated as one of the world's most liveable cities.

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through the following:

• Flexible employment practices (including working from home and flexible hours)
• Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
• A competitive salary with five weeks' annual leave

In addition, we also offer career development programs, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare, and other discounts on internal and external services.

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications must be submitted online by the closing date of 29/10/2025 to be considered. As part of your application please submit a CV and Cover letter to include:

• Statement of Research Interests and Vision – max 500 words
• Statement of Teaching Philosophy – max 500 words

Please reach out to Rick Henry - rs.henry@auckland.ac.nz for a confidential conversation. Please note we are happy to answer your questions, but we do not accept applications by email.