Lead Engineer – Water Infrastructure Strategic Planning

About the Role

This position offers an exciting chance to influence and shape the future of water infrastructure planning across New Zealand. As a Lead Engineer focusing on water infrastructure strategic planning, you will play a critical role at the forefront of infrastructure strategy, particularly addressing stormwater, water supply, and wastewater systems. Your contributions will focus on upstream decision-making processes such as business cases and investment prioritization amidst challenges like climate change, regulatory reforms, and evolving community expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop system-wide infrastructure strategies spanning stormwater, water supply, and wastewater sectors.
• Influence early phases of infrastructure projects including business case development, program formulation, and prioritizing investments.
• Build and sustain strong client relationships positioning the organization as a trusted partner.
• Collaborate across global teams to deliver integrated solutions from strategic planning through to project delivery.
• Drive business growth by identifying and developing new opportunities within the water sector.
• Provide leadership and mentorship, enhancing skills and capabilities within the team.

Candidate Profile

• Strategic thinker and advisor with the ability to apply technical knowledge to practical outcomes.
• Over 15 years of experience in water infrastructure planning and strategy, with preferred experience in project delivery and implementation.
• Demonstrated success influencing infrastructure investment and planning decisions.
• Strong systems-based perspective integrating technical, environmental, and economic factors.
• Experience engaging senior stakeholders in councils, utilities, or government entities.
• Deep familiarity with New Zealand's water sector, including knowledge of ongoing reforms.
• Commercial acumen to identify opportunities and foster client partnerships.
• Effective communication skills, capable of simplifying complex information to insightful guidance.

Work Environment

This role is based in New Plymouth, Taranaki, New Zealand, with options to operate from other offices in Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, or nearby GHD locations, embodying a hybrid work model of three days in office per week combined with flexible working arrangements.

Diversity and Inclusion

The company values diverse cultures, genders, and backgrounds and is committed to equal employment opportunities. Applicants from all nationalities and cultural backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Additional Information

The position does not specify salary details, notice periods, or number of vacancies. It requires candidates motivated to contribute to sustainable long-term outcomes for communities and the environment.