Principal Planning Engineer - Water Treatment

About Watercare

Watercare is embarking on an ambitious $14 billion investment over the next decade to support Auckland's growing population with resilient water infrastructure, averaging $3.8 million daily. Our philosophy is that when water is healthy, it benefits the land and the people.

Role Overview

As Principal Planning Engineer for Water Treatment, you will play a pivotal role in shaping Auckland’s water infrastructure future. Reporting to the Team Lead of Water Treatment Planning, you will lead the creation and advancement of the Asset Management Plan (AMP), ensuring alignment with service strategies, water treatment and network performance, and adapting confidently to evolving needs. Your technical leadership will span the organization, influencing investment decisions and partnering with stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead development of headworks and water treatment facility master plans, ensuring timely delivery of AMP activities.
• Manage complex technical analyses and studies to build the AMP upon solid foundations.
• Oversee pre-feasibility stages of project planning to maintain schedule adherence.
• Provide governance and technical leadership during project feasibility phases.
• Ensure infrastructure outcomes satisfy business requirements, community expectations, mana whenua interests, and stakeholder needs.
• Serve as a recognized technical expert in water treatment planning; represent Watercare to stakeholders, consultants, regulators, and industry entities.
• Mentor professionals at various career stages and cultivate best practices in planning methodologies.

Required Experience and Qualifications

• Degree in Chemical, Civil/Environmental, Mechanical, or Process Engineering.
• Over 15 years of pertinent experience encompassing infrastructure planning, strategic asset management, and investment planning.
• Background in water operations.
• Experience in headworks and water/wastewater treatment design.
• Practical understanding of water treatment technologies.
• Expertise in master planning or asset management.
• Demonstrated strategic and analytical thinking that challenges norms, influences decisions, and leads in complex scenarios.
• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng or CEng) designation or internationally equivalent accreditation.

What We Offer

• Competitive remuneration package.
• Opportunities for professional training and development.
• Comprehensive life and income protection insurance coverage.
• Generous parental leave policies.
• Employee discounts with major retailers.