Lead Civil Engineer – Transport

About the role

SMEC is seeking an experienced Lead Civil Engineer to drive the design and delivery of complex transport infrastructure projects across New Zealand. This senior position will combine technical expertise with client‑focused leadership to shape urban road, rural highway and broader transport solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Lead civil design and delivery for urban road, rural highway and transport infrastructure projects.
• Provide technical leadership from concept through detailed design phases.
• Manage and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams to ensure quality, timeliness and integration.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors and industry partners.
• Contribute to business development and growth of the New Zealand civil capability.

Required profile

• Senior civil engineering professional with extensive experience in transport infrastructure.
• Proven ability to lead design teams and manage complex projects.
• Strong client‑facing and communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to technical excellence and mentorship.

Required skills

• Civil engineering design
• Transport infrastructure design
• Project delivery and design management

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on nationally significant transport projects.
• Collaborative, inclusive culture with global expertise.
• Career growth within a rapidly expanding NZ and Australian business.