Science, technology, and engineering firm KBR has entered a new era, relocating to Pirie Street after more than 30 years in its longtime suburban home.
Since relocating from Greenhill Road, the Adelaide office has experienced unprecedented growth — recruiting 90 new staff in 2025 alone, bringing the total number of local employees to 340.
KBR is attracting new talent thanks to its great culture and a strong pipeline of work across a range of sectors. The move to the CBD has also played a role in attracting new staff, with its existing staff welcoming the move.
KBR Operations Manager, SA, Natalie Papaioannou said that as soon as staff saw the 30 Pirie Street location, they knew they had “found the right place” where they could strengthen business operations.
“The design of the new office is stunning—we have open spaces, sweeping views of the city and the hills, and greenery throughout,” Ms Papaioannou said.
“It provides more spaces for collaboration than our previous office, while also giving people the freedom to work in different ways with meeting rooms, private booths, and a library for quiet work.
“Our people tell us that they really feel at home here, and the central location and amenities nearby are definitely a drawcard when it comes to recruiting new people.”
While the office was a major drawcard, the company’s recent growth could be attributed to “more than just a swanky office space.”
“We are very proud to be home to some of the best and brightest people who are very supportive of each other and work hard to create a fun and welcoming environment,” Ms Papaioannou says.
A Strong Expansion Since Moving into the City
KBR works on major, city-shaping projects such as the nuclear-powered submarine construction yard at Osborne and the New Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
It also works across water, energy, and resources projects, both in South Australia and nationally.
“Over the coming year, our focus will be the continued expansion of our transport business, as well as growing our environmental offering,” Ms Papaioannou said.
There really is so much variety in the work we do and so many opportunities for career growth here at KBR.”
AEDA City Worker Stats: At a Glance
According to AEDA’s latest Activity Report, city workers continue to play a significant role in the city’s economy.
Work-hour expenditure maintained its upward trajectory, both quarter-on-quarter and year-on-year, in the last quarter of 2025.
Spending during work hours increased by five per cent in Q4 2025 in comparison to Q4 2024.
AEDA data also showed that approximately 172,000 people were employed in the City of Adelaide.
The city saw growth of about 22,593 roles, marking a 19 per cent increase on pre-COVID-19 numbers.
City workers spend approximately $72 a day, totalling $275 a week.
Productivity-wise, each full-time worker contributed approximately $170,000 in average economic value over a year, with those in financial and insurance services providing the highest value-added contribution of $355,000.