Associate Director | Water Infrastructure

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AECOM is seeking an Associate Director, Water Infrastructure to lead the technical delivery and assurance of complex three waters projects across Hamilton and the Waikato, blending local knowledge with the firm’s global water network. You’ll build trusted relationships with councils and water service entities, mentor engineers, and drive design quality, risk management and commercial outcomes. To stand out, showcase 15+ years in NZ water planning, design and delivery, CPEng or equivalent, senior-level client networks in Waikato, and deep NZ standards knowledge. Tailor your resume to highlight three waters projects and local government engagement, and show how you’ll grow AECOM’s regional footprint. Apply soon; Day 1 onboarding is mandatory for new hires, with flexible work options.

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

AECOM leads the way in delivering sustainable, resilient, and future‑focused water solutions across wastewater, potable water, and stormwater systems being recognised as #1 ranking by ENR for the global water market. From advanced wastewater treatment to innovative, environmentally responsible water processes, our teams provide comprehensive, source‑to‑tap expertise from planning and pilot testing through design, construction, and commissioning. We also strengthen communities by enhancing flood and coastal resilience, advancing flood risk management, and developing cutting‑edge coastal modelling to address the climate emergency.

By joining AECOM, you become part of a collaborative network of experts tackling today’s most pressing water challenges and shaping infrastructure that protects communities, safeguards resources, and supports generations to come. 

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

As our Associate Director – Water Infrastructure, you'll provide technical and delivery leadership across Hamilton and the Waikato, helping deliver critical water supply, wastewater and stormwater projects. Backed by AECOM's national and global water expertise, you'll combine local knowledge with world-class capability to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions.

This is a unique opportunity to influence the future of New Zealand's water sector during a period of significant industry change and investment. You'll build trusted relationships with local government, regional councils, emerging water service entities and other key stakeholders, while helping grow AECOM's reputation across the Waikato and beyond.

• Lead the technical delivery and assurance of complex three waters infrastructure projects, providing design oversight, governance and technical sign-off.
• Build strong client relationships across Hamilton and the Waikato, acting as a trusted advisor to councils, water service entities and key stakeholders.
• Champion technical excellence, managing design quality, project risk and commercial outcomes in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
• Leverage AECOM's national and global water network to deliver best-practice solutions for local clients.
• Mentor and develop engineers while contributing to the continued growth of AECOM's Water business across the region.

Qualifications

The following experience is highly desirable, but if you don't meet every requirement, we'd still love to hear from you. You'll be a recognised technical leader with a passion for solving complex engineering challenges and delivering high-quality three waters infrastructure projects.

• 15+ years' experience in the planning, design and delivery of water supply, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure projects, ideally within New Zealand.
• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status (or equivalent international accreditation), supported by a relevant engineering degree.
• Strong client relationship skills, with the ability to build trusted partnerships at a senior level. Established networks across Hamilton, Waikato and local government clients will be highly regarded.
• Sound knowledge of New Zealand water and infrastructure standards, with an understanding of the Waikato market and local regulatory environment.
• Commercial awareness and an understanding of the evolving water sector, including the establishment of new water service entities.

Additional Information

Why you’ll love working with us

• Flexible work arrangements available, aligned with the market and client facing role requirements
• Purchase up to 6 weeks additional annual leave per year         
• Volunteer and representation leave
• Flex public holidays – swap Easter or other holidays for ones that suit you better

Ready to push the limits of what’s possible?

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and/or neurodiverse conditions. If you require any adjustments during the hiring process, please let us know.

Applications are reviewed as they come in, and the role may close earlier than expected, so if this opportunity sounds like you, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Learn more about life at AECOM: LinkedIn, Facebook , Instagram, X, YouTube - explore our AECOM voices, employee stories, latest projects, and much more!

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.