Mechanical Engineer - Water, Expression of Interest

Role overview

GHD is seeking expressions of interest from mechanical engineers who are motivated by water infrastructure and want to contribute to the New Zealand Pacific Water team. The work sits within a global professional services organisation focused on tackling major challenges in water, energy and urbanisation.

The team is responding to rising flood, drought and storm risks by helping clients prepare resilient water solutions. This opportunity suits professionals who enjoy complex technical problems, innovative thinking and making a tangible difference for communities.

This position is open to a range of experience levels, from around five years in relevant work through to highly seasoned lead mechanical engineers. Your input will support and strengthen three waters design capability and broader water-sector outcomes.

Opportunities may be available across New Zealand, including Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton, Hawkes Bay, New Plymouth, Palmerston North, Tauranga and Wellington.

What the role involves

• Assess water infrastructure challenges in depth and develop practical, well-considered engineering solutions.
• Contribute to detailed mechanical design for water systems, with a strong grasp of hydraulics and multidisciplinary coordination.
• Work on projects connected to water, wastewater, stormwater treatment plants and pump stations.
• Apply New Zealand codes and standards to maintain compliance and quality.
• Use or lead modelling and CAD work with tools such as Inventor, AutoCAD and related software.
• Use lateral, pragmatic thinking to solve problems creatively and effectively.
• Identify technical risks and help shape sensible mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues in a team-based environment.
• Communicate clearly with clients and internal stakeholders, both verbally and in writing.
• Build productive client relationships and align solutions with client objectives.

What is expected

Applicants should bring strong communication skills, solid mechanical engineering capability and the ability to work well across diverse teams and projects. Experience with water infrastructure and the confidence to contribute at both technical and strategic levels will be important.

Application process

Interested candidates should send a CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience and their vision for the role.

Work model

This role follows a hybrid arrangement, with office attendance expected three days each week to support collaboration and delivery.

Equality and hiring note

GHD promotes equal employment opportunities and welcomes applicants from all nationalities, genders and cultural backgrounds. Agency resumes are not requested at this stage.

About GHD

GHD is an employee-owned global professional services firm with more than 11,000 people across over 200 offices in five continents. The organisation works across engineering, architecture and construction, with a long-standing commitment to delivering sustainable outcomes in water, energy and urbanisation.

Additional information

The company’s commitment is central to its brand promise and approach. It aims to combine deep technical expertise with client and partner capability to address urgent global challenges and create long-term positive impact.