Migrant construction workers' demography and job satisfaction: a New Zealand study

Abstract

PurposeThe demand for construction-related occupations has increased consistently over many years in New Zealand (NZ). This has necessitated recourse to migrant workers to address capacity and capability requirements. Migrant construction workers hail from various backgrounds with a complex set of their needs being met through employment in NZ. Research on understanding the satisfaction levels of this category of construction workers is scarce. With recent insinuations about migrant exploitations, research investigations into this knowledge area are significant. In this study, the authors sought to establish the moderating effect of migrants' demography on the determinants of job satisfaction in NZ's construction sector.Design/methodology/approachData were obtained from migrant construction workers of Chinese extraction through a structured questionnaire survey. From 200 questionnaires administered, 108 samples were completed by migrant construction workers involved in major projects in Auckland city, NZ. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics to establish the moderating effects of their demography on job satisfaction.FindingsResults from this study support the internal validity and reliability of these personal characteristics as moderators of job satisfaction for migrant construction workers. These results suggest the relevance of personal characteristics of Chinese migrants in any improvement initiatives being developed for this group of construction workers.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings from this study contribute to the discourse on the relevance of construction migrants as a strategic alternative to addressing skill shortages within the NZ construction sector. They also provide evidence that contributes to an improved understanding of the migrant workforce to meet their aspirations and enhance their general well-being.Originality/valueAlthough the study is ethnic-specific, the conclusions show the relevance of personal characteristics in the experiences of construction migrant workers. The study is representative of the catchment of temporary migrant workers in the construction industry in NZ. The study provides insights for organisations employing migrants about putting in place appropriate measures to enhance their satisfaction levels. Finally, this study's findings may contribute to policy initiatives on the optimal categories of migrants engaged on construction activities to derive the maximum benefits for NZ.

The determinants of job satisfaction amongst specific migrant construction workers

“…Their overall job satisfaction within the NZ context was examined using the five themes outlined in Figure 1. The job satisfaction determinants/themes (RN, WE, KACP, QLWC and LON) follow those argued in Rotimi et al (2023). These dominant themes collated from literature are relevant to this study context.…”

“…Hence this study draws its conceptual framework from insights in normative literature on the universal measurement of job satisfaction and descriptors peculiar to skilled migrant workers. The respective measurement items for each determinant follow Rotimi et al (2023). The study's participatory approach enables the engagement of this specific community of migrants, ensuring that their perspectives and experiences are central to the research.…”

“…Hence this study draws its conceptual framework from insights in normative literature on the universal measurement of job satisfaction and descriptors peculiar to skilled migrant workers. The respective measurement items for each determinant follow Rotimi et al. (2023).…”

“…Thus, the current study aims to investigate the determinants of job satisfaction amongst Chinese migrant construction workers with TWVs in New Zealand. The additionality of the current study is to draw strength from MacLennan's (2018) and Rotimi et al (2023) studies. Hence addressing questions on the specificities of Chinese migrant construction workers in NZ, such as, how satisfied this category of workers are and what determines their overall job satisfaction?…”

“…Thus, the current study aims to investigate the determinants of job satisfaction amongst Chinese migrant construction workers with TWVs in New Zealand. The additionality of the current study is to draw strength from MacLennan's (2018) and Rotimi et al. (2023) studies.…”