Am I directly eligible for permanent residency in New Zealand if I get a job there in mechanical engineering after completing my post-study work visa?

No, getting a mechanical engineering job in New Zealand after your Post-Study Work Visa does not make you automatically eligible for permanent residency.

You must qualify through specific pathways, such as:
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC): Requires a full-time skilled job offer, points based on your qualifications and experience, and meeting minimum work experience and salary thresholds.
- Green List Pathway: If mechanical engineering is on the Green List, you may be eligible for "Straight to Residence" or "Work to Residence" after working in the role for a set period.

Your employer must be accredited, and all requirements are subject to change.