Principal Advisor, Transport System Policy

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

Auckland Council's Transport System Policy team is hiring a Principal Advisor to shape Auckland’s transport future through policy development, investment planning, and advising elected members; the role requires leadership across departments, strong political acumen, and the ability to translate complex transport challenges into practical decisions, including time-of-use charging policy and regional planning. The ideal candidate will bring experience in the transport sector or related fields, a track record of cross‑agency policy delivery, knowledge of transport investment planning and NZTA procedures, and solid numerical and analytical skills; applicants with partial but relevant experience are welcome. To apply, tailor your CV to demonstrate strategic impact, provide concrete, quantifiable examples, and review the position description; Applications close 25 February 2026; salary range 125,000 to 138,000.

• Help shape the future direction of Auckland’s transport system
• Join a supportive and collaborative team
• Flexible working and option to purchase an extra week of leave

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

We have an exciting opportunity for a Principal Advisor to join Auckland Council’s Transport System Policy team. 

This is an important role that will focus on developing the transport policies and investment planning needed for an effective transport system in Auckland, as well as providing associated quality advice to elected members. Auckland’s transport system is dynamic, complex and growing, making it an interesting and challenging area to work in. You have an opportunity to be part of shaping the future of our region. 

You could expect to work on:

• addressing Auckland’s major transport challenges, such as policy thinking on time-of-use charging
• supporting transport investment planning, including supporting the development of the Regional Land Transport Plan
• the development of transport system measures to monitor strategic transport direction
• advising managers and elected members on a range of important transport matters

He kōrero mōu: About you

This role requires relevant experience in the transport sector, or within associated disciplines such as infrastructure, urban development, and economics. You have experience in similar roles within large, complex organisations and are able to demonstrate political acumen.

We will be looking for candidates with specific experience within the key role requirements:

• leading the delivery of cross-departmental or cross-agency strategy or public policy
• supporting capital programme development, including application of prioritisation methodologies, and having familiarity with NZTA procedures
• having a good understanding and knowledge of transport systems, investment planning, urban planning policies, related local and central government legislation, and council practices and constraints
• advising senior managers and elected members and engaging with senior stakeholders
• good numerical literacy and analytical skills are desirable

We still encourage you to apply if you have some but not all these requirements.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer 

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement. 
 

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.  
 

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.
 

View a snapshot of some of our employee benefits HERE 
 

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!

Applications close: Wednesday, 25 February 2026 

Find a copy of the position description HERE
 

This role has a remuneration range of $125,000 to $138,000

Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

#WorkingForAuckland 

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.