Project Controls Specialist

About the Role

We are seeking a Project Controls Specialist to support a portfolio of infrastructure projects by providing expert project controls assistance. Collaborating closely with Project Directors, Managers, and teams, you will help ensure successful project delivery through effective control of cost, scheduling, risk, reporting, and governance within New Zealand's evolving transport system.

Key Responsibilities

• Handle project controls and administration tasks across assigned projects.
• Assist project teams with forecasting, budgeting, scheduling, reporting, and risk management.
• Maintain and analyze project financial data including cashflow forecasts and variance analyses.
• Coordinate detailed project and programme reports for key stakeholders.
• Facilitate identification, escalation, and management of project risks and issues.
• Deliver technical advice ensuring alignment with enterprise project controls frameworks.
• Foster trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders during the project lifecycle.
• Support continuous improvement of project management tools, methodologies, and reporting standards.

Candidate Profile

You will demonstrate strong expertise in project controls and a dedication to achieving high-quality results in complex infrastructure settings. Experience operating within PMO, programme, or project delivery environments is essential.

Required Skills and Experience

• Proven background in project controls encompassing cost management, reporting, scheduling, and risk oversight.
• Solid experience with project financial management including budgeting, forecasting, and analysis.
• Excellent communication abilities, both written and verbal.
• Strong organizational capacity with an aptitude for managing competing priorities.
• Track record in building collaborative relationships across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Capability to identify trends, risks, and issues and implement proactive measures.

Preferred Qualifications and Knowledge

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Business, Commerce, Engineering, or related disciplines.
• Project or programme management certification.
• Exposure to civil engineering, transport, or infrastructure sectors.
• Understanding of contract administration and reporting, including New Zealand Standards and collaborative contracting practices.
• Familiarity with project management software and SAP financial systems.

Additional Information

Applicants should demonstrate an interest in or willingness to learn about Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. Knowledge of or openness to understanding Te Tiriti o Waitangi in a public service context is expected.

This role operates within the Transport Services Group, which influences New Zealand’s future transport infrastructure by working with communities, local governments, and industry. The successful candidate will contribute to infrastructure impacting how citizens live, move, and connect.

Benefits

• Competitive salary within Band 16, reflecting your experience and capabilities.
• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Opportunities for career growth within a varied infrastructure portfolio.
• Collaboration with leading infrastructure professionals in New Zealand.
• Five weeks of annual leave.
• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for permanent team members.
• A workplace culture emphasizing inclusivity, collaboration, and employee development.

Additional Terms

Please note that you must have legal rights to live and work in New Zealand to apply. We encourage early applications as the vacancy may close prior to the listed deadline of 25 August 2026. Waka Kotahi promotes equal opportunity employment and values diversity and inclusion. Support is available during recruitment for applicants with access needs.