Practice Lead Safety – System Design

Overview

Join to apply for the Practice Lead Safety – System Design role at NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi .

Location : Wellington, Auckland, or Christchurch preferred

Job Type : Full-Time

Imagine leading a team whose work directly shapes the safety of every journey across Aotearoa. As our Practice Lead Safety , you’ll be at the heart of transforming New Zealand’s transport system—championing innovation, driving best practice, and making a real difference for communities nationwide.

The opportunity

We’re looking for a Practice Lead Safety (Engineering) to build and lead a high-performing team of transport safety engineering professionals. In this role, you’ll champion transport safety engineering excellence, drive innovation, and deliver impactful solutions that support NZTA’s vision for a thriving, connected Aotearoa.

Responsibilities

• Build and inspire a high-performing team of transport safety engineering professionals, united by a shared purpose.
• Lead a centre of excellence, ensuring the delivery of transport safety outcomes on the ground across Aotearoa New Zealand.
• Collaborate with passionate experts and partners, bringing bold ideas to life and delivering solutions that matter.

Every day, your leadership will help ensure that people get home safely, and that our transport system is future-ready, sustainable, and world-class.

About you

You are an inspiring and strategic leader, passionate about making a tangible difference in transport safety and empowering others to excel. Bringing your collaborative spirit, vision, and commitment to continuous improvement, you will contribute :

Ideally you will also bring

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.

About Us

Transport Services – System Design

We deliver great outcomes now and make the future a better place. As kaitiaki of the transport system, we work in partnership to design and deliver integrated land transport network improvements, enhance system performance, and put people and communities at the centre of our solutions. Our System Design team brings transport ambitions to life by designing it right from the start, ensuring choice, safety, and sustainability.

What you will get in return

At NZTA Waka Kotahi, you’ll join a passionate, values-driven team making a real impact for Aotearoa. We offer :

How to apply

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

Application close

Rā Katinga | Applications close :

13 November 2025

For further information, email :

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.

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Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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