Lead Engineer – Water Infrastructure Strategic Planning

Role Overview

The significance of water in sustaining global health cannot be overstated. With increasing occurrences and severity of floods, droughts, and storms, the water sector must enhance resilience and take on a leadership role. Joining a diverse group of water specialists, you will contribute to innovative approaches that anticipate and prepare for future challenges, leveraging a strong global network with decades of expertise to deliver positive, nature-respecting water solutions that support communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead comprehensive infrastructure strategy development across stormwater, water supply, and/or wastewater systems.
• Provide strategic influence on early-stage decisions, including business cases, investment programs, and prioritization of capital allocation.
• Establish and maintain long-term client partnerships to position the organization as a preferred collaborator.
• Work collaboratively within a global network to integrate solutions spanning strategy through execution.
• Identify market growth opportunities and contribute to expanding water sector engagements.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to team members, enhancing overall team capability.

Candidate Profile

This position suits individuals aiming to be involved in the initial phases of project lifecycles, focusing on defining strategic infrastructure outcomes rather than project execution alone.

Required Experience and Skills

• Over 15 years’ experience in water infrastructure planning and strategic development, with preferred experience in project delivery and implementation.
• Demonstrated ability to guide infrastructure planning and influence investment decisions effectively.
• Strong systems thinking, integrating technical, environmental, and economic factors in decision-making.
• Proven capability in engaging senior stakeholders from councils, utilities, or government bodies.
• In-depth knowledge of the New Zealand water sector and ongoing reform landscape.
• Commercial acumen to identify opportunities and nurture client relationships.
• Excellent communication skills to simplify complex topics and offer insightful guidance.

Work Environment and Culture

The role is based in New Zealand’s Hamilton, Waikato region, with opportunities to work from offices in Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, or other locations within the company’s network. The company operates a hybrid workplace model, encouraging three days per week in-office collaboration to foster connection and excellence while providing flexibility.

Equal Opportunity and Diversity

The employer values diverse cultures, identities, and backgrounds, committed to equal employment opportunities and inclusion of all nationalities, genders, and cultural groups. Candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of background, with a preference that no agency applications are submitted at this stage.

Company Overview

The company is a global, employee-owned professional services provider specializing in engineering, architecture, and construction with more than 11,000 employees across over 200 offices worldwide. Its brand promise, The Power of Commitment, reflects its dedication to tackling critical global challenges by integrating technical expertise with client collaboration to promote sustainable water, energy, and urban development solutions.