Operations Liaison Engineer - Fixed Term

About the team

The Three Waters Unit delivers essential water services to the community, with responsibility for supplying and treating drinking water in a safe, reliable, effective, and efficient way.

About the role

This fixed-term role runs for 2.5 years and focuses on connecting operational teams with capital delivery teams so projects move smoothly from design through handover and into ongoing use.

In this position, you will help turn operational needs into workable project outcomes, coordinate access and outage planning, and make sure work is completed safely and is ready for operational takeover.

What you may be doing day to day

• Working with project teams to align priorities, flag risks, and plan upcoming work
• Converting operational requirements into practical project decisions
• Coordinating with operations teams around site access, outages, and readiness
• Overseeing contractors on site and supporting safe delivery of work
• Balancing community service needs with project delivery goals
• Supporting several projects at different stages at the same time
• Working through differing priorities to reach workable outcomes
• Confirming projects are suitable for operations before they are handed over

You will be working in a fast-paced, responsive environment where clear communication and strong problem-solving are important.

About you

We are seeking someone who can work confidently in both technical and people-focused settings. The right person will bring experience across water or wastewater operations, plus the ability to work closely with capital delivery teams.

• At least 5 years of experience in water or wastewater operations, or a similar infrastructure setting
• Experience working with, or alongside, capital project delivery teams
• Strong knowledge of design, construction, and operational considerations
• Ability to build relationships and influence across different teams
• Confidence managing contractors and on-site activity
• Strong communication and problem-solving capability
• Ability to juggle competing priorities while keeping work progressing

What is on offer

• Access to training, workshops, and development opportunities
• Flexible working options, including working from home, adjustable start and finish times, and the option to buy extra leave
• Opportunity to work across a wider range of the organisation and collaborate with different teams
• A range of staff benefits, including health-related schemes and retail discounts

Additional information

Christchurch City Council is committed to a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. If you are interested in the role but your experience does not match every requirement exactly, you are still encouraged to apply.

If you need support or adjustments during the recruitment process, you can contact the council at jobs@ccc.govt.nz.

• This role is scheduled for 37.5 to 40 hours per week
• The position is fixed term for 2.5 years
• The main work location is Christchurch Wastewater Treatment Plant, Shuttle Drive, Bromley
• The salary range is NZD 88,003 to NZD 97,781 per year based on a 40-hour week, with the starting point determined by knowledge, skills, experience, and internal pay relativities
• Closing date: 5/07/2026
• Applications may be reviewed before the closing date, and the role could be closed early if suitable candidates are found