Project Controls Specialist

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Project Controls Specialist to offer expert support across a portfolio of infrastructure projects. Working alongside Project Directors, Managers, and teams, you will facilitate successful project delivery by overseeing cost management, reporting, risk oversight, scheduling, and governance processes. As part of the Transport Services Group, you will contribute to projects that connect communities and facilitate travel and transport throughout New Zealand, while advancing project controls practices and frameworks.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage project controls activities and administrative tasks for assigned projects.
• Support project teams in reporting, forecasting, budgeting, scheduling, and managing risks.
• Maintain and analyze financial data including cashflow forecasts and variance assessments.
• Coordinate high-quality reporting for stakeholders at project and programme levels.
• Assist in identifying, escalating, and managing project risks and issues.
• Provide technical guidance to ensure compliance with organizational project controls frameworks.
• Develop trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders across project lifecycles.
• Drive continuous improvement in project management tools, methodologies, and reporting standards.

Candidate Profile

• Experienced in PMO, project delivery, or programme environments.
• Strong expertise in project controls including cost management, scheduling, reporting, and risk oversight.
• Demonstrated skills in project financial management such as budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Highly organized with the ability to prioritize competing demands effectively.
• Proven ability to build collaborative relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Proactive in recognizing trends, risks, and challenges to deliver timely solutions.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

• Background working on civil engineering, transport, or infrastructure projects.
• Familiarity with contract administration and reporting frameworks, including New Zealand Standards and collaborative contracting models.
• Experience with project management software and SAP financial systems.
• Relevant tertiary qualification such as Business, Commerce, Engineering, or related disciplines.
• Project or programme management certification.

Diversity and Inclusion

The successful candidate will have knowledge of, or readiness to learn about, Te Ao Māori, promoting tikanga and Te Reo Māori, and understanding the Treaty of Waitangi within a public service context.

About the Organization

As a member of NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi), the largest infrastructure delivery agency in New Zealand, you'll be part of a team shaping the country's future integrated transport network in collaboration with communities, local governments, and industry partners.

Benefits

• Competitive salary within Band 16 based on qualifications and experience.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Opportunities for career advancement across a diverse set of infrastructure projects.
• Collaboration with leading infrastructure professionals in New Zealand.
• Five weeks of annual leave.
• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for permanent employees.
• A supportive, inclusive culture fostering growth and development.

Additional Information

To apply, submit a CV and cover letter outlining your suitability. Applications close on 25 August 2026. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. The employer is an equal opportunity organization committed to diversity and inclusion, providing accommodations throughout the recruitment process if required. Early applications are encouraged as the employer may begin shortlisting before the deadline and may withdraw the posting at any time.