Principal Project Lead - Resource Management Act and Fast-track Consenting

• RMA Consents Principal Project Lead based in Auckland Central
• Hybrid working model with flexible working options

• Salary will be $130,00 to $155,000 + KiwiSaver contribution

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

As Principal Project Lead within the Premium Unit, you will be leading on some of the most regionally and nationally significant projects within the Auckland region. Working in collaboration with applicants on large scale projects by assisting them to develop and obtain consents through our ‘premium’ end to end customer service – including decision making.

The Premium Unit is a small, energised team of experienced Project Leaders and processing town planners who are responsible for managing the most complex and high-profile resource consents in Auckland. From major subdivisions and nationally significant infrastructure projects to large scale residential and commercial developments – including approvals under the Fast-track Approvals Act. More info on the premium unit here:

https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/en/building-and-consents/resource-consents/premium-service-resource-consents.html
 

You will lead a team of internal and external planners, specialists, engineers, and other technical experts who are all required to input through the resource consents process. This involves, amongst other things, chairing Project Control Groups, providing advice around consenting strategy, identifying risk, coordinating specialist inputs, and importantly making good decisions in an efficient and timely manner.
 

You will be required to collaborate with a diverse range of units across Council and its CCO’s to resolve issues that may impede the consenting process or input into programmes being driven by other areas of Council (e.g.., Plans & Places and the Development Programmes Office). You will also liaise with relevant teams responsible for managing communications on LGOIMAs, Appeals, media, Local Board, MPs, and members of the community. 

Click link to access Position Description

He kōrero mōu: About you

•    Proven leadership experience with strong collaboration skills 
•    Planning / resource management experience OR a related tertiary degree 

•    Strong mediation, facilitation, influencing and collaboration capabilities  

•    Project Management experience in a multi-disciplinary environment
•    Strong problem solving and issue resolution capabilities
•    Excellent written and verbal communication skills

•    Experience in making legally sound decisions

*Please note that a valid full NZ driver’s license is also required for this role

 
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

We offer flexible working arrangements and a competitive salary. You will be joining a team of dedicated and respected experts working collaboratively across the region to contribute to Auckland’s growth and development. We are committed to diversity, and have a culture built on trust and valuing individual as well as collective contributions.

We also offer:

• Career progression, development opportunities; opportunities to change career directions

• A fantastic learning environment with in-house training and development from one of the best staff training functions in NZ 
• Opportunities to work from both home and our central Auckland office as well as a range of staff benefits available to Council employees
• Be involved in a diverse variety of exciting and high-profile projects
• Networking opportunities across Auckland Council, CCO’s and the development sector

Applications close: Sunday 15 March 2026

However, please note that early applications are encouraged as interviews will be conducted as and when applications are received – so apply now to avoid disappointment. 

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.