Principal Water Engineer, Wellington

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

AECOM is looking for a Principal Water Engineer in Wellington to provide technical leadership on critical three waters projects, expand local client relationships, and help grow the Wellington team. The role demands a proven track record delivering complex NZ water sector programs, at least 10 years’ experience, strong interpersonal and commercial judgment, and the ability to coordinate with internal and global design teams. You’ll be the go-to technical lead, drive delivery excellence, and mentor others while balancing client needs, scope, and budgets under tight schedules. To apply, tailor your CV to highlight NZ three waters delivery, leadership, and client engagement with concrete problem solving and budget management examples. Apply early, as applications may close sooner than expected, and note any accessibility adjustments you need.

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, our work in providing access to clean water enables communities to thrive and ecosystems to flourish, contributing to a resilient future. As a global leader in infrastructure consulting, we are at the forefront of significant water projects, with over 6,000 of the industry’s best minds driving innovation and technical excellence. Together, we develop solutions that are not only best in the world, but best for the world.      

With an acceleration in infrastructure investment, your bold ideas and global expertise have never been more crucial. Join our dynamic team, where innovation, career growth, and collaboration are celebrated. 

Enjoy the freedom to grow with customisable career paths, water-specific technical and professional development and the potential to contribute.

Job Description

Join AECOM in this technical leadership role supporting the delivery critical water related projects throughout Wellington.  This is a unique opportunity to make a difference during a time of change for the water sector, as well as for the growth of the locally based Wellington team.

• Provide technical leadership across water related projects being the go-to person on technical design and project queries.  
• Build client relationships across local Wellington water clients as a trusted advisor, including continuing client relationships through the establishment of the new water entities.
• Support project delivery excellence advocating for local Wellington water client needs, as well as engaging with other technical experts and design teams based throughout New Zealand and globally.
• Work with the current local team and manager to support the growth of the team including support others technical development and engineering abilities for water projects.

Qualifications

The following qualifications and experience are highly desired, but if you don’t tick all the boxes you could still be a perfect fit for this role. Please apply, all applications will be considered.

You will be an experienced technical lead, known for your problem-solving ability and deliver of complex technical requirements across critical three waters and related projects.

• A relevant tertiary qualification in engineering or an industry-recognised project management qualification with an engineering background.
• At least 10 years of professional experience, ideally as a Principal Engineer within the New Zealand three-water sector including a track record of complex project delivery.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain positive client relationships, as well as with internal delivery teams.
• Commercial acumen and judgement with the ability to deliver results ensuring scope and quality outcomes, with tight timeframes and client budgets.

Additional Information

Why you’ll love working with us 

• Flexible work arrangements, including alternative start/finish times, part-time, job-sharing and hybrid work options
• 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!

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 2024. 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.