Survey Draftsperson

Be part of an inclusive team that makes a difference. The Davis Ogilvie team work to:

• ­Deliver high-quality survey and spatial data that underpins critical infrastructure, development, and environmental projects.
• Support community growth and resilience by providing accurate land information for design, construction, and resource management.
• Adopt innovative technologies – including UAVs, 3D scanning, and GIS – to provide cutting-edge spatial solutions for our clients.

We have a great opportunity for a Survey Draftsperson to join our busy Christchurch team. You will be part of our overall survey and spatial team and will work closely with surveyors, engineers, and planners across a range of projects, including land development, infrastructure design, and environmental management.

We work in an exciting and dynamic environment where you will be supported to develop your skills and take ownership of your work. At Davis Ogilvie, a key point of difference is your involvement in the full project lifecycle — from data collection and processing through to drafting, modelling, and delivery to the client.

We're looking for a motivated and detail-oriented draftsperson with 3–5 years' experience and a passion for producing high-quality, technically accurate survey drawings.

You'll be responsible for:

• ­Creating technical drawings including plans, profiles, and cross-sections based on survey field data and notes.
• Using CAD software (AutoCAD or AutoCAD Civil 3D) to prepare boundary, topographic, and infrastructure plans.
• Interpreting survey and geospatial data to represent land features and construction layouts accurately.
• Collaborating with surveyors, engineers, and project managers to ensure data integrity and consistency.
• Cross-checking drawings for accuracy and compliance with relevant standards and regulations.
• Maintaining organised records of design files, revisions, and project documentation.
• It would be advantageous to have experience in one or more of the following:
• Point cloud processing (Trimble Business Center or similar).
• 3D modelling and BIM integration using Civil 3D, Revit, or MicroStation.
• Drone survey data conversion using Pix4D, Agisoft Metashape, or similar.
• GIS data integration using Esri ArcGIS or QGIS.
• Quality control and spatial verification of survey and as-built data.

You will have:

• A diploma or degree in drafting, surveying, civil engineering, or a related field.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and/or Civil 3D.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team.
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities.

The successful applicant will be offered competitive remuneration and excellent opportunities to develop their career in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.

Why DO is a great place for you to work…

Our people are key to the success of our business. We are highly skilled, technical experts who are passionate about what we do. We are a friendly, supportive, diverse and inclusive team with high priority on creating a positive work environment. We work on a wide range of projects from residential and commercial developments to large scale roading and infrastructure projects.

We have three offices who work closely together on projects throughout the South Island. This will give you the opportunity to work with colleagues from our other offices on exciting projects within the regions.

In addition to working with a team of great people, you can also expect the following benefits:

• Professional Development – We encourage our staff to keep learning and growing. We will cover the cost of relevant memberships and subscriptions and provide opportunity for meeting CPD requirements with a range of inhouse and external courses throughout the year.
• Wellbeing – Subsidised Health Insurance through Southern Cross, access to an online wellbeing programme, regular mental health and wellness presentations, fresh fruit in the office, paid entry into various sports events, and 24/7 EAP services.
• Environmental – We care about the environment and the communities where we live and work and supporting them is important to us. We are a carbon zero company with a focus on minimising our impact as much as possible. We also give hands on help, raising awareness and money for causes that make a difference in New Zealander's lives. Read more about what we get up to here -
• Facilities - A spacious lunchroom with park views and a balcony, plenty of bike parking, shower facilities, and standing desks. Hagley Park is right across the road for your lunchtime fresh air or exercise.
• ­ Fun – DO has a uniquely positive and inclusive work culture due to our flat structure that means you will work closely with our leadership team. From frequent social events and various work functions, you will quickly feel part of the DO family. Meet the team here -
• History – Davis Ogilvie has been established in the South Island for over 90 years and is locally owned and operated. You will work side by side with the company directors and other staff with an abundance of knowledge and experience.