Join a team that’s shaping the future of one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing districts. Waimakariri District is a vibrant and rapidly expanding region just north of Christchurch, offering an exceptional lifestyle and strong community spirit.

With a population now exceeding 60,000 residents, the district continues to grow, driven by its attractive mix of rural charm, urban convenience, and strategic infrastructure investment. At Waimakariri District Council, we’re proud to support this growth by delivering high-quality services and planning for a thriving future.

About the Role:

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Special Projects Team Leader to join our Project Delivery Unit for 12 months fixed term (providing parental leave cover). In this pivotal role, you’ll lead a team of professionals delivering in-house engineering consultancy services that are competitive with the private sector and focused on client outcomes. You’ll be responsible for:

• Leading and mentoring the Special Projects Team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous development.

• Providing technical leadership across a range of engineering disciplines, including water services, civil infrastructure, and greenspace projects.

• Managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects - some spanning multiple financial years - from investigation and design through to construction and delivery.

• Ensuring all works align with Council standards, long-term plans, and community expectations.

• Preparing and managing contract and tender documentation, and overseeing construction processes.

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience in engineering design and project management, ideally within local government or consultancy.

• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities.

• Expertise in managing large-scale, high-risk infrastructure projects.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

• A collaborative mindset and commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes.

Why Join Us?

• A chance to lead meaningful projects that directly impact the community.

• A supportive and collaborative team environment.

• Competitive salary and benefits.

• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.

• A workplace culture that values innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.

Please click here to view a copy of the Position Description.

The Council is a Professional Development Partner with Engineering New Zealand and is an equal opportunity employer.

For any further information on this position please contact Colin Roxburgh, Project Delivery Manager, on 0800 965 468 (0800 WMKGOV).

Applications close on 28 September 2025

Please note to apply for this role, you must hold a current and valid visa to work in New Zealand. Proof of eligibility will be required as part of the recruitment process.