Project Controls Specialist

Position Overview

The NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi) is seeking a Project Controls Specialist to provide expert support in project controls across a portfolio of infrastructure initiatives. This role involves partnering with Project Directors, Managers, and teams to ensure projects meet timelines, budget, risk, and quality standards through thorough financial management, reporting, risk oversight, scheduling, and governance adherence.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage project controls processes and related administrative tasks across allocated projects.
• Support project teams with budget forecasting, scheduling, reporting, and risk assessment.
• Maintain and analyze project financial data including cashflow projections and variance reviews.
• Coordinate comprehensive and accurate project and program reports for stakeholders.
• Assist in identifying and escalating project risks and challenges promptly.
• Provide expert technical guidance to align projects with enterprise controls frameworks.
• Develop and sustain trusted working relationships with internal and external stakeholders throughout project phases.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of project management systems, methodologies, and reporting techniques.

Candidate Profile

• Experience in a PMO, program delivery, or project management environment.
• Strong skills in project controls, including cost management, scheduling, reporting, and risk management.
• Demonstrated capability in financial project management such as budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis.
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
• Exceptional organizational abilities and adeptness at handling multiple competing priorities.
• Proven ability to build collaborative partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
• Competent in trend, risk, and issue identification and proactive resolution.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

• Background or experience in civil engineering, transportation, or large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Familiarity with contract administration, including New Zealand Standards (NZS) and collaborative contracting models.
• Experience using project management software and SAP financial systems.
• Relevant tertiary degree in Business, Commerce, Engineering, or related field.
• Certification or qualification in project or program management.

Cultural and Legal Considerations

The successful candidate will either possess knowledge of or be willing to learn about Te Ao Māori, promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori, and understand the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi as they relate to public service.

About the Organization

As part of the Transport Services Group, Waka Kotahi is New Zealand's largest infrastructure delivery entity, responsible for planning, designing, delivering, managing, and operating a nationally integrated transport network in partnership with local communities, government, and industry. The position offers an opportunity to influence major infrastructure projects that shape people’s mobility and connectivity across Aotearoa.

Benefits and Perks

• Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Opportunities for career progression across a varied infrastructure portfolio.
• Experience collaborating with leading infrastructure professionals in New Zealand.
• Five weeks of paid annual leave.
• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for permanent staff.
• An inclusive, supportive, and growth-oriented workplace culture.

Additional Information

The salary is set within Band 16, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Applications must include a CV and cover letter outlining suitability. Only applicants with the legal right to live and work in New Zealand will be considered. Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and accessibility throughout their recruitment process. Early applications are encouraged as shortlisting may begin promptly and the advertisement may be withdrawn without notice.