Title:  Senior Water Engineer

Keep New Zealand’s rail network flowing – join us as a Senior Water Engineer

Senior Water Engineer

• Keep our assets safe, reliable and sustainable
• Permanent full-time role, based in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch
• Provide technical designs and advice on water and drainage infrastructure

Position Description

He kōrero mō mātou | About us

At KiwiRail, we connect communities and deliver sustainable growth for New Zealand. For over 150 years, rail has been part of Aotearoa’s story, moving people and freight safely while protecting our environment.

Our purpose—Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mo Aotearoa (Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand)—guides everything we do. With over 4,500 people across the country, we work together to keep New Zealand moving while looking after each other and the communities we serve. 

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role

As a Senior Water Engineer, you’ll provide technical designs and advice on water and drainage infrastructure across our rail network. You’ll shape design, maintenance, and assurance activities that keep our assets safe, reliable, and sustainable.

Working with internal teams, consultants, contractors, and authorities, you’ll manage projects from investigation through to delivery. You’ll contribute to KiwiRail’s engineering standards, offer expert advice on third-party works, and ensure risks are well understood and managed. This is a role where your expertise will make a real difference to long-term asset performance. 

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What you will bring

We’re looking for someone who combines technical skill with a collaborative mindset. You will bring:

• 10+ years’ professional experience in water and drainage engineering

• Strong knowledge of drainage design, hydrology, flood modelling, and water quality assessment

• Experience with coastal and river protection projects

• Familiarity with asset management principles and assurance processes

• The ability to prepare and submit council consent applications

• Proficiency with engineering analysis tools and asset databases

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Civil Engineering (Engineering New Zealand accredited)

• Chartered Engineer status or working towards it (desirable)

• A postgraduate qualification in Civil Engineering (desirable)

And personally, you’ll be someone who:

• Prioritises safety and acts with integrity

• Communicates clearly with a range of audiences

• Stays calm and adaptable in changing environments

• Works well with others and supports team success

• Seeks out learning opportunities and applies feedback to grow

You’ll also need a current NZ driver’s licence and the ability to pass regular drug and alcohol screenings.

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you

At KiwiRail, we offer more than just a job:

• A competitive salary and benefits package

• Opportunities to grow your career within one of New Zealand’s largest engineering networks

• Ongoing training and professional development, including support towards chartership

• The chance to contribute to projects that shape New Zealand’s future infrastructure

• A strong team culture that values safety, respect, and inclusion

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

If you’re ready to apply your expertise to water engineering that keeps New Zealand connected, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and be part of a team making a lasting impact.

KiwiRail is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and particularly encourage women, Māori, Pacific Peoples, disabled, and LGBTQ+ applicants to apply.

All aboard for a rewarding career with KiwiRail!

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Submit your CV and cover letter online. If you’re a current KiwiRail employee, please apply using your internal profile.

Rā aukati | Applications close: 19 October 2025 (unless filled sooner)