Nz Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
Oversees transport networks, manages infrastructure, and improves road safety across New Zealand.
18 hours ago
$110,000 - $145,000
Expert & Leadership (13+ years), Experienced (8-12 years)
Full Time
Palmerston North City, Manawatū-Whanganui, New Zealand | New Plymouth, Taranaki, New Zealand
Hybrid
Company Size
5,000 Employees
Service Specialisms
Sector Specialisms
Description
contract admin
investment planning
risk management
lifecycle management
safety compliance
portfolio management
The role is based in Palmerston North or New Plymouth and is a full‑time permanent position. It involves owning and optimising a multi‑million‑dollar structures portfolio, shaping the future of bridges and critical assets across New Zealand’s highways, and collaborating with industry leaders to drive strategic investment.
As Structures Manager you will be accountable for the region’s structures asset portfolio, ensuring optimal lifecycle management, safety compliance and value for money across the state highway network. You will lead contract administration, strategic investment planning and risk management for bridges and structures, working closely with consultants, contractors and technical specialists to enhance the safety, resilience and future of the nation’s transport infrastructure.
The agency’s Maintenance and Operations team keeps the transport system safe, reliable and optimised, delivering outcomes for New Zealanders while valuing collaboration, courage and wellbeing.
- Lead contract administration, strategic investment planning and risk management for bridges and structures
- Ensure optimal lifecycle management, asset performance and safety compliance across the state highway network
- Collaborate with consultants, contractors and technical specialists to deliver resilient transport infrastructure
Requirements
asset management
bridge engineering
budget management
risk assessment
communication
civil engineering
To apply, candidates should upload a CV and cover letter outlining suitability; applications close on 8 February 2026. A legal right to work in New Zealand is required and the agency is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Strong experience in structures asset management, lifecycle planning and programme development
- Proven ability to manage consultants and contractors for maintenance and renewals
- Deep knowledge of bridge/structures engineering, design standards and maintenance
- Budget management and financial control expertise
- Experience in risk assessment, business case development and funding applications
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Tertiary qualification in civil or structural engineering (or equivalent experience)
- Professional membership with Engineering NZ/SESOC (preferred)
Benefits
The role offers a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements and a comprehensive benefits package, including annual leave and insurance, as well as the chance to manage budgets exceeding $10 million and influence critical infrastructure.
- Competitive salary $110,000–$145,000 (commensurate with skills and experience)
- Flexible working arrangements (role dependent)
- Five weeks of annual leave
- Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for permanent employees
Training + Development
Interview process
Visa Sponsorship
Security clearance
Overview
11,000 km
Road Network
Manages a vast network spanning thousands of kilometers to support transportation needs.
- Committed to enhancing transport systems for safer and more sustainable roads.
- Key focus on improving safety, reducing congestion, and supporting economic growth.
- Works on high-impact projects like highway upgrades, bridge construction, and public transport systems.
- Partners with local councils, contractors, and government bodies to drive transport innovation.
- Focus on long-term projects, including future-proofing infrastructure for urban and rural areas.
- Committed to integrating new technologies, like electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Culture + Values
- We are here to improve people’s lives through transport.
- We embrace diversity of thought and are open to new ideas.
- We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for everyone.
- We work collaboratively and communicate openly.
- We make decisions based on evidence, data, and facts.
- We are accountable for our actions and outcomes.
- We act with integrity and are guided by strong ethics.
Environment + Sustainability
35% reduction target
Emissions reduction goal by 2025
Aims to significantly lower transport-related emissions to support climate goals.
10% reduction achieved
Carbon emissions reduction in 2020
Demonstrates progress toward long-term sustainability objectives with measurable results.
- Committed to becoming a net-zero carbon organization by 2050.
- Promotes electric vehicles and sustainable transport options.
- Focus on sustainability extends to procurement, encouraging eco-friendly products and practices.
Inclusion & Diversity
43% Workforce
Women Representation
WomenCurrently account for about half of NZTA’s workforce, reflecting progress toward gender equality.
50% Leadership Goal
Gender Diversity Target
Aiming for balanced gender representation in senior roles within the next four years.
- Focus on increasing gender diversity across all levels.
- Policies implemented to support gender equality and ensure balanced representation in leadership roles.