Job Description

Location:Christchurch, Wellington, or Auckland (or other main centres by agreement)
Job Type:Full-time, Permanent

• Lead and shapenationalworks programmes that deliveronsafety and operationsobjectives

• Provide asset managementexpertiseacrossthemaintenance and operationslifecycle

• Influencewhole‑of‑life,value‑for‑moneyoutcomes for Aotearoa’s transport system

TeWhiwhingamahi | The opportunity

We’relooking for a Principal Asset Engineer to lead andfacilitatethe development and delivery of regional works programmes that support nationwide service levels and strategic targets. In this role,you’llact as a critical interface between national planning teams and regional teams, ensuring ajoined‑upapproach to planning and deliveryfor assetssupportingsafety and efficient operations

You’llplay a key role in strengthening asset management capability across theregions,supportingforwardplanning,whole‑of‑lifedecision‑making,andoptimalservice for delivery for our customers

Key responsibilities include:

• Providenational technicalleadership over the national Skid and Texture programme

• Leadingthe development and continuous improvement ofLifecycle Asset Management Plans for safety and corridor efficiency assets

• Provide subject matterexpertiseon road marking, delineation, barriers,monitoringand ITS

• Supporting the development of regional tactical and forward works programmes

• Interpreting asset condition,performanceand financial data toprovideasset management advice andinform regional priorities

• Building strong partnerships acrossNZTA, service partners and the wider sector

You will find out more about the role here:

Kokoetēnei| About you

You will bring:

• Significant experiencein asset management across roading or infrastructure assets

• Strong asset data literacy with advanced analytical andproblem‑solvingcapability

• Experience advising and influencing stakeholders on complex asset management matters

• Proven ability to build strong relationships across operational, technical and leadership groups

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ideally, you will also have:

• Knowledge ofState Highwaysystems,plansand operational environments

• Experience reviewing and assuring asset programmes or investment decisions

You willdemonstrateknowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori, promote tikanga and tereoMāori, and an appreciation of TeTiritio Waitangi as it applies in the public service.

Mōmātou| About us

You’llbe part of Transport Services, anend‑to‑endgroup responsible for the planning, design, delivery,maintenanceand operation of New Zealand’s land transport system. Our people work collaboratively to deliver safe, resilient andcustomer‑focusedtransport outcomes that support how New Zealanders live,workand connect.

Kawhiwhikoeite aha | What you will get in return

Our people are united by purpose and driven to make a meaningful difference for Aotearoa.

We offer:

• A competitive salary and benefits package

• Flexible working arrangements (role dependent)

• 5 weeks’ annual leave, plus Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for permanent employees

• The opportunity to influence nationally significant asset management outcomes

• We are seeking to appoint at a salary between$130,000.00 and $170,000.00,commensuratewith skills and experience.

Ready to take the next step in your asset management career?We’dlove to hear from you. Apply today and join a teamthat’sshaping the future of Aotearoa’s transport system.

Mepēheatetukutono| How to apply

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

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

1 June 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.