Senior Utilities Engineer
Get out in the field, explore diverse water infrastructure, solve real-world engineering (Electrical & Mechanical) challenges, and make a tangible difference to our environment and communities.
Growing organisation enabling future career growth
Work variety across projects, utility performance and improvements
Permanent Petone based position with flexible WFH days
This is a permanent position with a remuneration range between $112,118 and $158,284 per annum (including KiwiSaver). Appointment remuneration will be dependent on skills and experience. International applicants meeting position requirements can be considered.
The opportunity
Working within our designated Utilities Engineering Team this role will see you provide senior engineering expertise to ensure the operation and management of the three waters’ utilities infrastructure can adequately support the requirements for effective services to our communities. You’ll focus on continuous improvement and investigate utility assets for fault prevention, maintenance, renewal and replacement across reservoirs, pump stations and pressure control valve assets.
You will also lead or support:
Project manage minor utility renewal and upgrade works, building your project management capability.
Manage internal and external contractors.
Work closely with Land Development, Engineering Solutions & Investment, and Asset Management teams as the network utility expert.
Support field crews to investigate and repair faults and deliver services.
Monitor workflows and improve processes, including evaluating SCADA data and external impacts on network performance.
Inspect and sign off connections and physical works for renewals, upgrades and new assets.
About you
To be successful, you’ll bring:
A relevant engineering degree, ideally in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, with a combined 8+ years’ three waters or process industry.
SCADA and CAD proficiency, strong analytical skills, and the ability to scope utility asset solutions and replacement requirements.
Experience leading physical asset programmes and projects, including vendor management. CMRP, PMP or PRINCE2 certification is desirable.
Background collaborating with community stakeholders, contractors and customers to identify and address issues relating to mechanical faults.
An interest and aptitude to working flexibly in the office, at home and in across our beautiful wellington region.
Benefits
At Tiaki Wai, our purpose extends beyond delivering great water services for the region; we foster a thriving community, support a diverse workforce, and offer supportive development opportunities. We genuinely care about your safety and wellbeing.
Our benefits include:
Flexible working arrangements including up to 2 days working from home
Comprehensive wellbeing programme, including one paid wellbeing day annually
Formal and informal professional development opportunities
5 weeks annual leave accrual will be available following 2 years of continual service
For a full list of our employee benefits click here.
About us
Tiaki Wai is a council-owned organisation responsible for managing the delivery of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater services across Hutt Valley, Porirua, and Wellington.
We manage public-owned extensive water infrastructure and oversee the delivery of safe and reliable services for our communities. We focus on long-term investment, asset management, maintenance, and delivering major infrastructure projects that support public health, environmental protection, and regional growth.
Water is a precious taonga. At Tiaki Wai, we put care into every drop and are guided by our values of Integrity, Care, and Leadership. We work directly with water consumers and in partnership with councils and mana whenua to deliver better water outcomes for current and future generations.
Applications close: 27th October 2026
How to apply
To view a copy of the position description: click here.
To apply for the role, click on the ‘apply’ button or visit the Tiaki Wai Careers site, if you are a Tiaki Wai employee please apply using your work email.
For further information, email: JoinUs@tiakiwai.co.nz
Applicants for safety sensitive roles will be required to undergo drug and alcohol testing prior to commencing employment with Tiaki Wai. International applicants seeking migration with a minimum of 8 years relevant experience, and applicable qualifications can be considered for this position.
- Department
- Network Operations
- Role
- Network Performance
- Location
- Petone Office
Petone Office
Staff benefits
1. Inclusive Culture: It is important to us that people love our culture. We embrace a workplace where diversity is celebrated, and inclusivity is at our core. Our team is united by passion, dedication, and a shared care for water and our community.
2. Safety and Support: We provide an Employee Assistance Scheme for crucial personal support, along with wellbeing and lifestyle education delivered through our Wellbe Team, ensuring you feel supported in and out of the workplace.
3. Health is Wealth: We prioritise your health with an annual voluntary health "warrant of fitness," immunisations, and flu vaccinations. Moreover, enjoy annual subsidised vision testing and contributions toward glasses to ensure clear vision.
4. Work-Life Balance: Where possible there is access to flexible work practices. And take advantage of our annual leave, reaching five weeks after three years of service, and 10 days sick leave from starting with us. In addition, take one paid day a year for your personal Wellbeing. We also offer parental leave and partner entitlements to support you during significant life moments.
5. Comprehensive Benefits: We have partnered with providers for discounted Southern Cross medical insurance, periodic vision and hearing tests, and eyewear subsidies. You can also access discounts at a range of retailers via Boost. Gain access to top-notch gear, machinery, PPE, and tools, fostering a safe work environment if you are “on the tools”. We also offer a staff referral bonus paid when a person is recruited for a senior front line position, and we may offer relocation support if you need to move into the district to work here.
6. Professional Growth: Grow your skills with a range of development opportunities. Boosting your personal and work career.
7. Community Connection: You can take one paid day a year to participate in voluntary work on a water-related activity. And maybe join our active Waiata group and be part of a community that works together, sings, and thrives together.
