Cost and Benchmarking Lead - Infrastructure

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

KiwiRail is seeking a Cost and Benchmarking Lead – Infrastructure in Penrose Auckland for a permanent full time onsite role with flexible arrangements. You’ll manage the financial performance of infrastructure projects, provide commercial input across procurement, contract management and financial reporting, and identify risks to support growth and transformation. Requirements include strong commercial management, procurement and contract administration in large infrastructure, cost estimation and forecasting expertise, contract negotiation skills, stakeholder management, and a tertiary qualification in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering or equivalent; NZ driver’s license and ability to travel domestically. Benefits include salary with 4% KiwiSaver, medical insurance, five weeks leave, staff travel, and PD opportunities. Apply by 11 February 2026; tailor your CV to show cost control impact and cross‑team collaboration, and be prepared for a pre‑employment medical and drug screen.

• Join KiwiRail as a Cost and Benchmarking Lead – Infrastructure
• Location Penrose Auckland
• Permanent, full-time role with flexible working arrangements available

Position Description

He kōrero mō mātou | About Us

At KiwiRail, we have been connecting New Zealand for over 150 years. As a proud State-Owned Enterprise, we deliver sustainable rail and ferry services that create economic, social, and environmental value for our people, customers, and communities. Our mission, "Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mo Aotearoa" (Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand), drives us to modernise and expand, ensuring KiwiRail is well-equipped to serve future generations.

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the Role

As the Cost and Benchmarking Lead – Infrastructure, you will play a key role in supporting KiwiRail’s infrastructure initiatives, focusing on managing the financial performance of our projects and ensuring compliance with industry standards. You will provide commercial input across procurement, contract management, and financial reporting, as well as identifying and mitigating financial and commercial risks. You will be integral to the decision-making process, delivering insights that support KiwiRail’s infrastructure growth and transformation.

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What You Will Bring

• Strong expertise in commercial management, procurement, and contract administration within large infrastructure businesses
• In-depth knowledge of cost estimation, forecasting, and financial reporting tools and methodologies
• Experience in contract negotiation, preparation, and administration
• Proven ability to manage financial and commercial risks across large-scale infrastructure projects
• Ability to evaluate procurement contracts to ensure value for money and risk mitigation
• Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams
• A tertiary qualification in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or equivalent experience in cost planning, budgeting, and financial reporting
• A current New Zealand driver’s licence and ability to travel domestically as required

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for You

• Competitive salary plus 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution
• Staff discount southern cross medical insurance
• A wide range of discounts at retail partners
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Discounted staff travel
• Access to join NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust where you will enjoy a range of benefits including access to holiday homes across New Zealand, as well as support for optometry, physiotherapy, GP services, and prescription costs.
• Professional development opportunities to help you grow and succeed
• Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace dedicated to innovation, sustainability and community impact

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're ready to lead financial performance and drive operational success at KiwiRail, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and help us build stronger connections for a better New Zealand.

Applications close: Wednesday 11th Feb 2026 (unless filled sooner) 

Successful candidates must pass a preemployment medical and drug screen.