Sustainability Lead - Ōtaki / Levin

About the Project

The Ōtaki to North of Levin (Ō2NL) highway will dramatically improve safety, resilience, and efficiency, while increasing transport choices for a growing population. The project is being delivered in partnership with NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, local hapū of Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, and Horowhenua District Council.

This is a transformative infrastructure project being delivered using a two-alliance model. Our shared project principles include treading lightly on the whenua, building strong partnerships, and delivering an enduring legacy. We’re looking for great people to join us on this unique journey.

About the Role

The Sustainability Lead is responsible for driving sustainability outcomes across all phases of project delivery. From implementing carbon reduction strategies and circular economy principles, to ensuring regulatory compliance and supporting supplier performance—this role integrates sustainability into daily site operations.

Reporting to the Engineering, Quality & Sustainability Manager, you’ll collaborate with engineers, site supervisors, iwi partners, and leadership to embed environmental best practices and legacy-focused outcomes. The successful candidate should be a team player who can drive the delivery of this large project in a efficient and innovative manner, while working in close partnership with different stakeholders and the whenua.

Key Responsibilities

• Embed sustainability frameworks and resource efficiency practices into construction activities.
• Monitor compliance, support reporting (including GHG emissions), and maintain documentation.
• Drive carbon reduction and circular economy initiatives across site operations.
• Engage with suppliers and subcontractors to promote sustainable practices.
• Provide training, advice, and support to teams on sustainability expectations.
• Lead assessments, audits, and on-site implementation of sustainability plans.
• Liaise with iwi, partners, and project stakeholders to align environmental and cultural goals.
• Champion safe, responsible work practices that reflect kaitiakitanga and community wellbeing.

About You

Don’t tick all the boxes but still keen?

We know that great people come from all kinds of backgrounds. If you have transferable skills, a great attitude, and the drive to contribute to a high-performing project—we want to hear from you.

About Us

McConnell Dowell – Creative Construction

Our purpose is  Providing a Better Life . We do that by delivering infrastructure that connects, supports and sustains communities—and by providing career opportunities that help our people grow.

From city-shaping transport to remote energy and water projects, we’ve successfully delivered complex infrastructure across New Zealand, Australia, the Pacific and Southeast Asia for over 60 years.

Why Join Us?

The work you’ll do will have a positive, lasting impact on communities—and on your career. Our diverse projects and supportive culture offer plenty of development opportunities. With some of the best minds in the industry, we’ll help you set and reach your personal and professional goals.

We actively celebrate diversity and individuality. In a team culture that’s low on ego and high on support, you’ll be encouraged to bring your ideas and make an impact. We’re big enough to deliver legacy projects and agile enough for your voice to matter.

So, join us, be you, and help us create better together. Apply now!

We are an equal opportunity employer. People of all ages, abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities and cultures are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please note : All successful applicants must have valid work rights for New Zealand and / or Pacific Islands and pass a satisfactory pre-employment medical, including drug and alcohol testing.

This role is being sourced through McConnell Dowell directly. We are not accepting applications via external recruitment agencies.