Principal Transport Planner

About the role

The Principal Transport Planner will join the Transport Planning team at NZTA as a senior member, leading integrated transport planning initiatives and ensuring the delivery of transport outcomes for major projects. This full‑time permanent role offers the opportunity to shape New Zealand's future transport system while mentoring emerging talent.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to integrated transport planning initiatives across strategic, investment and network optimisation projects.
• Own the transport outcomes of assigned projects and act as the client representative.
• Direct the work of internal and external transport planning teams to meet delivery expectations.
• Support practice improvement and the development of the emerging workforce.

Required profile

• Confident self‑starter with strong collaborative skills and a growth mindset.
• Extensive experience as a seasoned transport planner, familiar with project development and investment case principles.
• Proven project leadership, high delivery focus and meticulous attention to detail.
• Experience managing professional services suppliers and navigating legislative and political processes.
• Ability to mentor team members and contribute to a strong team environment.
• Holder or candidate for CTPP chartership.

Required skills

What we offer

• Base salary ranging from $142,000 to $156,000 per year (NZD).
• Five weeks of annual leave.
• Life, income protection and critical‑illness insurance for permanent employees.
• Opportunities for professional development within a national transport agency.