At Groundswell, we’re more than engineers — we’re problem solvers, collaborators and community builders. Based in Newcastle, our employee‑owned consultancy is home to a tight‑knit team of around 30 engineers, designers, draftspeople and business support professionals. Together, we deliver practical, tailored civil engineering solutions that bring meaningful and sustainable projects to life.

We’re looking for a Trainee Civil Draftsperson who’s ready to kick‑start a genuine long‑term career in civil design.

You don’t need to already be a draftsperson. We’re looking for someone with the right attitude, an eye for detail and a genuine interest in engineering, design or construction. We’ll help you build the technical skills.

Working alongside our experienced drafters and engineers, you’ll learn the fundamentals of CAD software, civil design and engineering documentation — while getting involved in real projects from day one.

This could be a outstanding fit if you’ve already spent a couple of years in the workforce and are ready for a hands‑on, technical career change, or if you’re at the beginning of your career and looking for an opportunity to learn, develop and build something long‑term.

About the role

At Groundswell, we’re more than engineers — we’re problem solvers, collaborators and community builders. Based in Newcastle, our employee‑owned consultancy is home to a tight‑knit team of around 30 engineers, designers, draftspeople and business support professionals. Together, we deliver practical, tailored civil engineering solutions that bring meaningful and sustainable projects to life.

We’re looking for a Trainee Civil Draftsperson who’s ready to kick‑start a genuine long‑term career in civil design.

You don’t need to already be a draftsperson. We’re looking for someone with the right attitude, an eye for detail and a genuine interest in engineering, design or construction. We’ll help you build the technical skills.





Working alongside our experienced drafters and engineers, you’ll learn the fundamentals of CAD software, civil design and engineering documentation — while getting involved in real projects from day one.

This could be a great fit if you’ve already spent a couple of years in the workforce and are ready for a hands‑on, technical career change, or if you’re at the beginning of your career and looking for an opportunity to learn, develop and build something long‑term.

What you’ll bring

- A genuine interest in civil engineering, design or construction

- An enthusiasm for learning CAD software and developing new technical skills

- Strong attention to detail and a methodical, problem‑solving approach

- Good written and verbal communication skills

- The confidence to ask questions, seek feedback and learn from those around you

- A reliable work ethic and willingness to take ownership of your work as your skills develop

- A positive attitude and ability to work both independently and as part of a team

- Willingness to undertake, or currently be enrolled in, a Diploma or Certificate in CAD Drafting — with study support provided

- Unrestricted Australian work rights at the time of application

Your role at Groundswell

As your skills and confidence develop, you’ll get hands‑on experience across different aspects of civil drafting and design, including:

- Learning and using industry‑standard CAD and drafting software

- Assisting with the preparation of civil engineering drawings and documentation

- Working alongside experienced drafters, designers and engineers





- Learning how engineering designs are developed from concept through to detailed documentation

- Building an understanding of civil design principles and drafting standards

- Contributing to real projects across a diverse range of sectors

- Developing your technical skills through hands‑on mentoring, feedback and practical experience

- Becoming an active part of a collaborative team where questions and learning are encouraged

Why you’ll love working with us

- Earn while you learn, with support towards a recognised Diploma or Certificate in CAD Drafting

- A structured traineeship with hands‑on mentoring from experienced drafters and engineers

- Real project experience from day one

- A flexible, supportive workplace with a genuine focus on work‑life balance

- Real opportunities for professional development and long‑term career growth

- An employee‑owned business where your contribution is recognised

- An enthusiastic, motivated and highly social office culture

- Access to our Employee Assistance Program

- A Newcastle office just a short walk from Beaumont Street, with plenty of nearby parking and public transport options

These benefits are consistent with the traineeship package you’ve set out, including qualification support, flexibility, development opportunities, employee ownership and your Beaumont Street location.

About Groundswell

Groundswell is an employee‑owned civil engineering consultancy based in Newcastle. Our team of around 30 works across a diverse range of projects, bringing together engineers, designers and draftspeople to develop practical and cost‑effective civil engineering solutions.

We take the time to understand each site, project and client, working closely with clients, consultants, authorities, stakeholders and local communities to achieve great project outcomes.

We’re proud of the team and culture we’ve built — and for the right person, this traineeship is an opportunity to build your career alongside us.

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📌 Trainee Civil Draftsperson (New South Wales)
🏢 Groundswell Engineers
📍 New South Wales