Auckland Council
Auckland Council governs and manages Auckland's local services, facilities, and community needs.
22 hours ago
Expert & Leadership (13+ years), Experienced (8-12 years)
Full Time
Howick, Auckland Region, New Zealand
Hybrid
Company Size
10,000 Employees
Service Specialisms
Sector Specialisms
Description
stormwater planning
project management
engineer representative
stakeholder collaboration
mentor juniors
continuous improvement
Join the Healthy Waters & Flood Resilience department as a Senior Healthy Waters Specialist, taking a lead technical role shaping pragmatic, best‑practice stormwater solutions that protect communities and environments across Tāmaki Makaurau.
Reporting to the Manager of Catchment Planning and sitting within the Catchment Planning team, you will champion innovation and customer‑centric outcomes while ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget. Collaboration across council teams, infrastructure partners and the public is core to the work, guided by the council’s values, commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, kaitiakitanga and the integration of te ao Māori.
The role demands technical leadership, end‑to‑end project management, strategic procurement input, partnership with internal and external stakeholders, mentorship of junior staff and a strong focus on continuous improvement and health, safety and wellbeing.
- Lead complex stormwater catchment planning and develop/review management plans.
- Manage project delivery end‑to‑end, overseeing health & safety, risk, budget, quality and schedule.
- Serve as Engineer’s Representative and evaluate high‑risk procurements on tender panels.
- Collaborate with council teams, infrastructure providers, developers and the public.
- Mentor junior team members and respond promptly to customer and planning requests.
- Promote continuous improvement, innovation and a strong health, safety & wellbeing culture.
Requirements
bachelor's
chartered
hydrology
urban design
leadership
communication
We are looking for a seasoned civil or environmental engineering professional with deep three‑waters experience and a proven record of delivering high‑risk storm‑water projects. The ideal candidate holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering or science (professional body membership desirable), has over ten years of sector experience—including at least five years in specialist storm‑water planning— and possesses technical expertise in hydrology, sustainable urban design and environmental performance. Strong communication, stakeholder engagement, commercial acumen, and demonstrated leadership in health, safety and financial risk management are essential.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science; professional membership or pathway to it (post‑graduate/chartered preferred).
- 10+ years in the three‑waters sector, with 5+ years in stormwater catchment planning specialist roles.
- Technical expertise in hydrology, sustainable urban design and stormwater system environmental performance.
- Excellent communication, consultation and stakeholder influencing skills, including public engagement.
- Proven leadership in health, safety & wellbeing and solid financial/risk management experience.
- Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion; GenderTick accredited and Pride Pledge signatory.
Benefits
Auckland Council offers a dynamic, supportive environment where your work will directly impact the lives of more than 1.7 million residents. Benefits include flexible working conditions, a focus on wellbeing, a culture of continuous improvement, and a strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (GenderTick accredited and Pride Pledge signatory). The council is an equal‑opportunity employer and encourages applicants with support or access needs to request assistance.
- Flexible working arrangements and a focus on employee wellbeing.
- Opportunity to positively affect over 1.7 million Aucklanders.
Training + Development
Interview process
Visa Sponsorship
Security clearance
Overview
2010
Year Established
The organization was founded in 2010 to oversee the growth and development of New Zealand's largest city.
Over 1 Million
Impact Metrics
The Council's services affect over 1 million residents annually.
10 Years
First Decade Impact
In its first decade, the Council spearheaded numerous infrastructure projects addressing rapid population growth.
Large-Scale
Urban Renewal Projects
Significant efforts have been directed toward large-scale urban renewal programs and public transportation developments.
- The Council ensures the delivery of a wide range of local services, including public transport, water management, and community facilities.
- It operates across multiple sectors, including urban development, transportation, utilities, and environmental services.
- Auckland Council has been instrumental in shaping the city’s sustainability initiatives and long-term planning strategies.
- The Council’s work delivers everything from parks and libraries to waste management and housing.
- Notable projects include the development of public transportation networks and enhancing green spaces.
- Auckland's unique location as a coastal city drives the Council's focus on managing marine and water resources sustainably.
Culture + Values
- Atawhai | Kindness, generosity
- Kotahi | Strength in diversity
- Auaha | Creativity, innovation
- Pono | Integrity
- Taonga tuku iho | Future generations
Environment + Sustainability
50% by 2030
Greenhouse Gas Reduction
Target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 compared to 2016 baseline.
Net Zero by 2050
Emissions Goal
Aim to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, aligning with global climate targets.
94% Reduction
Per-Capita Emissions
Projected 94% reduction in per-capita emissions by 2050 compared to 2016 levels.
50% to 94%
Decarbonisation Pathway
Projected decarbonisation pathway showing a 50% reduction by 2030 and 94% reduction by 2050.
- Eliminate reliance on gas heaters and increase renewable energy use in new and existing buildings.
- Enhance public transport, cycling, and walking infrastructure to reduce private vehicle use.
- Implement waste reduction strategies across food, paper, plastic, and wood waste streams.
- Promote reforestation and sustainable land-use practices to enhance carbon capture.
- Transition to electric vehicles and zero-emission public transport systems.
- Initiatives underway include forest planting, gas boiler phase-out, and office consolidation.
Inclusion & Diversity
- Ethnic Communities Advisory Panel advises on regional strategies, policies and plans based on ethnic community experience
- Pacific Peoples Advisory Panel provides guidance to improve outcomes and engagement with Pacific cultures
- Independent Māori Statutory Board ensures adherence to Treaty of Waitangi and promotes Māori interests
- Council focus: "Recognise, value and celebrate Aucklanders\' differences as a strength" within Auckland Plan
- Diverse advisory panels reflect strategic commitment to culturally responsive policymaking