Senior Project Engineer / Project Manager – Wellington Metro

About the role

KiwiRail is seeking a senior‑level professional to lead end‑to‑end delivery of complex rail infrastructure projects in the Wellington Metro region. The role blends hands‑on technical input with project planning, stakeholder management and delivery leadership to ensure safe, compliant and high‑quality outcomes.

Key responsibilities

• Lead technical planning, scoping and cost development for complex network intervention work packages.
• Translate conceptual designs and business cases into fully scoped, approved and resourced projects.
• Provide senior engineering leadership through detailed design, construction, commissioning and handover.
• Develop accurate project plans, schedules and detailed budgets in line with programme standards.
• Support procurement, contract negotiations and initiation of contracted works.
• Manage quality and safety across all engineering disciplines throughout the delivery lifecycle.
• Assist Project Managers with risk assessment, mitigation and issue resolution.
• Mentor and coach Project Engineers and Junior Project Engineers to uplift capability and maintain consistent standards.

Required profile

• Proven experience delivering high‑risk, multi‑disciplinary rail or infrastructure projects.
• Strong technical leadership and engineering assurance capabilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage contracts, quality, performance and stakeholder expectations.
• Excellent communication skills and a track record of mentoring junior staff.
• Commitment to safety, sustainability and KiwiRail’s mission.

Required skills