Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency

Senior Project Manager Complex

Auckland Full time
  • Work across significant projects that will deliver tangible benefits for the wider community 

  • Gained 5-7 years project management experience with solid exposure in project development and delivery of complex construction infrastructure projects.  

  • Permanent position based in Auckland or Northland 

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity     

We have a great opportunity for a Senior Project Manager Complex to step up into leading some exciting projects. The purpose of this role is to lead and deliver transport infrastructure projects as well as supporting NZTA’s vision of efficiently delivering an integrated, safe, responsive and sustainable transport system, to create great journeys across the motu and to keep New Zealand moving.  

You will establish and nurture close relationships, work collaboratively with all NZTA partners, including local iwi, public and communities, business and property owners, suppliers, asset owners, contractors and consultants to deliver project leadership. You will be ensuring that the outcomes delivered are best for project, as well as aligning to NZTA Waka Kotahi desired outcomes.  

This is a multi-faceted role, requiring strong leadership qualities to manage our contracted partners. Working in the Project Services team, you’ll collaborate and engage with teams across NZTA Waka Kotahi, local authorities, and a variety of stakeholders and development partners. This is where your strong relationship skills will come to the fore.  

You will be an NZTA Waka Kotahi project lead as part of the Project Management Community delivering capital construction projects. Because this role is working closely with the project team, there would be an expectation that you work at the project office at least 4 days per week.

You will find out more about the role here.

Ko koe tēnei | About you     

Our successful Senior Project Manager Complex will bring:   

  • Substantial experience in project management, including scope, schedule, financial and risk management, preferably in the transport sector  

  • The ability to develop projects by applying a strong understanding of legislation and the business case approach 

  • Experience in establishing and managing contracts within the civil engineering industry and a sound understanding of delivery models (Alliancing, Traditional NZS3910)  

  • Track record of providing a strong collaborative approach to engagement with partners and stakeholders and commercial management across contracting arrangements with suppliers' consultants and contracting organisations 

  • A collaborative and outcome focussed approach to project development  

  • Exceptional relationship management skills  

  • Experience in leading project teams of professional people including those from external organisations  

  • Strong influencing skills, with the proven ability to negotiate successfully with senior leaders within the transport sector or similar  

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public service.    

 mātou | About Us 

At NZTA, it all starts with our people. The organisation's performance and success depend on the people who choose to make this a great place to work and make a difference for New Zealand. The Transport Agency has a strong future focus, understanding that new technologies and changing customer expectations mean the transport system we know today will not be the one we deliver in the future.  

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return 

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.  

  • Flexible working arrangements. 

  • Along with our other benefits we also have 5 weeks annual leave and an Income Protection and Critical illness Insurance scheme available for all permanent employees. 

Ready to take the next step in your career? We’d love to hear from you. 

 

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:   

Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role. 

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

8 February 2026

For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.