Principal Asset Engineer Safety

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

• Lead and shape national works programmes that deliver on safety and operations objectives 

• Provide asset management expertise across the maintenance and operations lifecycle 

• Influence whole‑of‑life, value‑for‑money outcomes for Aotearoa’s transport system 

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity 

We’re looking for a Principal Asset Engineer to lead and facilitate the development and delivery of regional works programmes that support nationwide service levels and strategic targets. In this role, you’ll act as a critical interface between national planning teams and regional teams, ensuring a joined‑up approach to planning and delivery for assets supporting safety and efficient operations.  

You’ll play a key role in strengthening asset management capability across the regions, supporting forward planning, whole‑of‑life decision‑making, and optimal service for delivery for our customers.  

Key responsibilities include: 

• Provide national technical leadership over the national Skid and Texture programme  

• Leading the development and continuous improvement of Lifecycle Asset Management Plans for safety and corridor efficiency assets  

• Provide subject matter expertise on road marking, delineation, barriers, monitoring and ITS 

• Supporting the development of regional tactical and forward works programmes 

• Interpreting asset condition, performance and financial data to provide asset management advice and inform regional priorities 

• Building strong partnerships across NZTA, service partners and the wider sector. 

You will find out more about the role here: position description

Ko koe tēnei | About you 

You will bring: 

• Significant experience in asset management across roading or infrastructure assets 

• Strong asset data literacy with advanced analytical and problem‑solving capability 

• 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 of State Highway systems, plans and operational environments 

• Experience reviewing and assuring asset programmes or investment decisions 

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori, promote tikanga and te reo Māori, and an appreciation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies in the public service.  

Mō mātou | About us 

You’ll be part of Transport Services, an end‑to‑end group responsible for the planning, design, delivery, maintenance and operation of New Zealand’s land transport system. Our people work collaboratively to deliver safe, resilient and customer‑focused transport outcomes that support how New Zealanders live, work and connect.  

Ka whiwhi koe i te 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, commensurate with skills and experience. 

Ready to take the next step in your asset management career? We’d love to hear from you. Apply today and join a team that’s shaping the future of Aotearoa’s transport system. 

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply 

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