Pre‑Construction Manager

About the role

The Pre‑Construction Manager is a senior leader within the Capital Works team, responsible for guiding projects from concept through design, consent and planning to ensure alignment with the council’s long‑term plan. Working closely with engineers, project managers, consultants and the Head of Capital Works, the role ensures projects are well scoped, cost‑effective and ready for successful delivery.

Key responsibilities

• Develop robust pre‑construction programmes, budgets and methodologies following best‑practice project management.
• Review and validate business cases, designs, scopes and budgets for practicality and cost‑effectiveness.
• Prepare detailed project schedules, budgets, risk management and procurement plans.
• Collaborate with designers, planners and engineers to refine specifications and ensure compliance with NZS3910 and NZS3916.
• Support Project Managers in contract administration and resolve technical issues during construction.
• Assist Capital Works and Asset Management teams in conceptual pre‑planning and scoping of new projects.

Required profile

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in design management, construction management or project management on infrastructure projects.
• Proven leadership experience, including coaching and mentoring project teams.
• Track record of delivering complex projects within financial targets.
• Strong communication, presentation and stakeholder consultation skills.

Required skills

• Knowledge of NZS3910 and NZS3916 standards.
• Expertise in risk management, constructability review and quality assurance processes.
• Experience with design management, consenting and safety‑in‑design practices.

What we offer

• Great work‑life balance with flexible arrangements.
• Career coaching, development opportunities and life insurance.
• Paid wellbeing and volunteer leave, plus three days paid leave between Christmas and New Year.
• Two weeks paid Partners Leave and sick leave from day one.
• Continued KiwiSaver contributions during savings suspension and discounts with local and national businesses.