Senior Transport Planner

About the role

This is a strategic transport planning position within the Infrastructure and Assets Group at Hamilton City Council. The team works across the full asset lifecycle, from planning through to maintenance, to deliver resilient infrastructure and services that support the community now and into the future.

You will help shape transport outcomes for Hamilton, one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing cities, by influencing how people move through the city and wider region. The role has strong regional visibility and involves work on major initiatives such as Access Hamilton / Ara Kootuitui Kirikiriroa and the Hamilton-Waikato Metro Spatial Plan (MSP).

In this role, you will collaborate with local and central government partners, iwi, internal teams, and other stakeholders to develop integrated, evidence-led transport solutions that support growth, land use, and long-term city outcomes.

Key responsibilities

• Provide senior-level transport planning input across multiple programmes and projects.
• Shape transport strategy and policy, with a focus on integrated land use and transport planning.
• Contribute to delivery of Access Hamilton / Ara Kootuitui Kirikiriroa and MSP-related work.
• Work closely with central government, regional partners, iwi, and internal stakeholders to build effective partnerships.
• Represent the Council in regional working groups and infrastructure-related forums.
• Use evidence and analysis to inform decisions and communicate recommendations clearly.
• Act as a technical specialist supporting wider strategic planning and Council objectives.
• Assist with procurement activities and the oversight of consultancy providers.
• Engage with communities and stakeholders, translating complex transport information into practical insights.
• Provide technical interface support with Future Proof partners.

What we are looking for

• At least 8 years of experience in transport planning or a closely related discipline.
• A relevant tertiary qualification, or equivalent professional experience.
• Strong capability in integrated transport planning, strategy, policy development, project delivery, and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience working with complex datasets, modelling outputs, or transport simulation tools.
• Practical understanding of procurement processes and consultancy management.
• Working knowledge of GIS tools and standard business systems.
• A strategic thinker who can connect high-level goals to practical delivery.
• Strong relationship-building skills across multiple stakeholder groups.
• Political awareness and confidence operating in complex environments.
• Ability to influence others and bring people along on the journey.
• A collaborative style, with the ability to lead initiatives when needed.
• Interest in city-shaping work and transport transformation.
• An adaptable, innovative, and evidence-based approach.

Salary and benefits

The salary for this position is circa $135,000, depending on your skills and experience.

• Flexible working arrangements, supported by an award-winning flexible working policy.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development.
• Two wellbeing days each year.
• Free health insurance through Unimed, including hospital/surgery cover, plus discounted membership for family members.
• Annual health checks and flu vaccinations at no cost.
• Option to buy additional annual leave.
• Reimbursement for eye tests and glasses.
• Discounts with local businesses such as gyms, cafes, dentists, hairdressers, and more.

Application and selection details

If you want to include a cover letter, merge it with your resume in one PDF file or use the message box to the hiring team.

Applications close on 12 July 2026, and shortlisting may begin before the closing date as applications are received.

Successful candidates will be contacted by email. Shortlisted applicants should expect interviews, reference checks, and a criminal check. Additional background checks may apply where relevant to the role.

If you need accessibility support during the selection process, the Council asks that you share your needs in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made.

Hamilton City Council is committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and values its relationships with Kiingitanga, Waikato Tainui, mana whenua, and maataa waka across Hamilton Kirikiriroa. The Council also promotes an inclusive workplace where different perspectives, experiences, and talents are respected and valued.

This role is being recruited directly. If recruitment agency support is needed, it will only come from the Council’s selected panel of agencies, and unsolicited agency contact will not attract any commission or fees.