Senior Principal Engineer - Pavements

DownerWorkFromHome, Waikato, New Zealand

11 days ago

Job description

Overview

Downer NZ is on the lookout for a highly accomplished pavement engineer with a deep technical background, strategic mindset and a passion for innovation and capability development within the pavement discipline.

At Downer we plan, create and sustain. Downer is the leading provider of integrated services in Australia and New Zealand. Through trusted relationships and world‑leading insight we work closely with our customers to design, build and sustain assets, infrastructure and facilities.

Why you will enjoy working here

Downer is committed to delivering excellence by ensuring our people have the environment and the means to be successful. We also offer :

Flexible location – this is a national role, with the option to be based in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington or Christchurch
Rewarding salary and work‑life balance
An inclusive and respectable place to work
Free access to Marram health care benefits and discounted holiday homes
Z Energy fuel discount and monthly freebies
$500 bonus for current employees who refer a friend to Downer
Progression and development programmes to support personal and professional growth
A supportive, collaborative culture that invests in your growth and values your leadership.

The Opportunity

At Downer, we’re not just building roads; we’re connecting communities and shaping New Zealand’s infrastructure for generations to come. We are seeking an influential and technically exceptional Senior Principal Engineer to join the pavement design team in our Transport and Infrastructure business. This role provides national technical leadership across pavement engineering – driving excellence, capability uplift and innovation across Downer’s design, delivery and operational businesses.

Reporting to the National Pavement Lead, you will :

Provide specialist technical oversight on high‑risk and high‑opportunity projects

Lead design governance to ensure technical excellence, Safety in Design and value‑for‑money outcomes

Mentor and develop pavement engineers, fostering a culture of growth, collaboration and learning

Drive research and adoption of advanced pavement materials, binders and design methods

Represent Downer at industry forums, standards committees and tertiary partnerships

Collaborate across Road Science, Infrastructure Delivery and Operations to align national strategy and outcomes

This is a pivotal role where your technical credibility, strategic thinking and leadership will shape Downer’s pavement capability and reputation nationally.

What you’ll bring

Washington Accord tertiary qualification in Engineering

Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status and MEngNZ or FEngNZ membership (or overseas equivalent)

15+ years’ experience in pavement and asphalt surfacing design, materials engineering, construction and quality assurance

Recognised expertise and influence within the pavement engineering sector, including contributions to standards, research or industry forums

Strong mentoring and leadership skills to inspire and develop others

Ability to balance technical excellence with commercial understanding and client outcomes

Excellent communication and problem‑solving abilities

Our Organisation

Want to know more about what it’s like to work at Downer? Visit our People Site to learn about our culture, people and projects.

How to apply

If you’re ready to lead the future of pavement engineering in New Zealand, head to search and register your interest.

Downer New Zealand is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive culture. Our workplaces are drug and alcohol free – all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre‑employment drug test and medical assessment.

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Principal Engineer • WorkFromHome, Waikato, New Zealand