Principal Project Engineer

• Provide leadership and technical subject matter expertise for the Waste Solutions Resource Recovery Network supporting Auckland’s Zero Waste by 2040 goal.

• Work with the team to build an environment that is supportive, empowering and enables high performance.

• Hybrid role within a flexible working environment with a minimum 3 office days, including site visits

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

We’re looking for a senior engineer/project manager to join our Resource Recovery Network (RRN) team as a Principal Project Engineer - RRN. In this role, you wear multiple hats simultaneously, serving as the Resource Recovery Facility Design Lead on Resource Recovery facilities; Design Manager for civil, structural, environmental engineering and architecture; and project manager and contract manager across all capital works for the Resource Recovery Network. As an engineering and building subject matter expert, there will also be the opportunity to provide support for other capital works and asset management within the broader Waste Solutions team.

This role provides oversight across design and leads selected consultants and contractors to ensure Resource Recovery Parks (RRPs) and Community Recycling Centres (CRCs) are designed, planned and constructed to be fully fit-for-purpose with a strong value‑for‑money approach to all initiatives and projects.

Strong relationship‑building skills are essential, working collaboratively with Community Operators, stakeholders across Waste Solutions and wider Auckland Council, and contractors to develop and support these site operations.

You can find the position description here

The remuneration range is between $125,000 - $145,000 depending on skillset and experience.

Te hiranga o tēnei mahi: Why this role matters

The Principal Project Engineer helps shape the facilities that provide community waste minimisation, resource recovery and education that Aucklanders rely on to support a circular economy and Auckland’s goal of Zero Waste by 2040. By delivering safe, functional and efficient Community Recycling Centres and Resource Recovery Parks, the role directly contributes to more sustainable communities across Tāmaki Makaurau.

Ngā kawenga matua: Key responsibilities

Working alongside the RRN Senior Programme Manager, you’ll lead the Assistant Project Managers and project delivery team to ensure the sites are designed for maximum impact for the community and waste minimisation ensuring all outcomes — including key performance indicators for time, cost and quality are consistently delivered in line with established council processes and procedures.

You’ll develop a deep understanding of the engineering challenges of these sites - from pre-existing infrastructure, construction on closed landfills and contaminated sites, stormwater contamination controls, and traffic, public, civil and building considerations. In addition, use of second-hand materials in design and construction is desirable to promote the Kaupapa of the Resource Recovery Network.

As Project and Contracts Manager, you will act as Contract Administrator under NZS3910:2023 to be the Principal Representative to oversee overall contract administration for construction projects from $3M to $40M.

He kōrero mōu: About you

You have extensive experience leading complex engineering and construction projects and capital works programmes backed by strong financial acumen. With expertise across the end‑to‑end capital development lifecycle, you can develop business cases, progress design, manage consenting and oversee construction delivery and project close-out.

You demonstrate strong capability in procurement and contract management, along with a solid understanding of Health and Safety requirements for design and construction. Experience in infrastructure and/or commercial development is essential. It will be advantageous to have experience in environmental, civil infrastructure, buildings, industrial facilities and public realm development. You have experience and drive for waste minimisation. 

Building trusted relationships is a key strength of yours along with leading through influence, and you bring a proactive, mentoring approach that strengthens team culture and capability.  

What We’re Looking For:

• A degree in Civil Engineering or similar

• Training or certification in project/programme management

• 10+ years’ experience engineering/construction management in the implementation and delivery of complex projects preferably in a political or highly complex public or private sector organisation
• Excellent communication and relationship skills, proven ability to develop strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of. As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits. 

 Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!

Applications close: Friday 17th April at 12am NZDT

We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis as they come in so, please apply today to avoid disappointment!

If you have any support or access requirements, please advise us by when submitting your application so we can assist you.

If you have any further enquiries please feel free to contact the talent acquisition consultant - Nima on 027 293 5083

Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

#workingforauckland 

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.