Assets Manager Reticulation

Lead the networks no one sees, but everyone relies on

Every time someone turns on a tap, takes a shower, or expects reliable wastewater services, they're relying on infrastructure hidden beneath our communities.

We're looking for an experienced Asset Manager Reticulation to help shape the future of Southland's water and wastewater networks.

This is a specialist asset management role where you'll influence long-term investment decisions, drive asset performance, and help ensure reliable, affordable services for communities across one of New Zealand's largest districts.

Why this role?

Southland District Council is building the team that will deliver our future water services model and implement our Water Services Delivery Plan.

Having invested significantly in strengthening our water capability over the past 12 months, the Asset Manager Reticulation is one of the final pieces of the puzzle.

You'll join a highly engaged team that is passionate about what they do, committed to each other, and driven by a genuine desire to serve our communities. Relationships matter here. Looking after our people matters here. Delivering great outcomes for Southland matters here.

Why this role is different

This isn't a typical council asset management role focused on a single scheme or network.

Southland delivers a diverse and complex portfolio that includes

12 drinking water schemes, ranging from urban supplies to mixed drinking water and stock water schemes

9 rural water schemes supporting Southland's agricultural sector

20 wastewater plants

Extensive wastewater reticulation networks servicing communities across one of New Zealand's largest districts

The scale, diversity, and geographical spread of these assets create challenges that demand strategic thinking, innovation, and a long-term view.

As costs, regulations, and community expectations continue to evolve, we're looking for someone who can help us think differently, identify opportunities, and ensure these critical services remain sustainable and affordable into the future.

What you'll be doing

Leading lifecycle planning for water and wastewater reticulation assets

Developing renewal and capital investment programmes

Using asset data and performance insights to support decision-making

Identifying risks, opportunities, and future infrastructure needs

Providing specialist technical advice across the organisation

Supporting long-term asset management and infrastructure strategies

Building strong relationships with operational teams, contractors, consultants, and stakeholders

What you'll bring

You'll bring strong asset management experience and the ability to balance technical, financial, and community outcomes.

You'll likely come from local government, utilities, consulting, engineering, or infrastructure management.

Most importantly, you'll be motivated by making a difference and contributing to services that communities rely on every day.

Ready for a career-defining chapter?

This could be the perfect opportunity for an experienced infrastructure professional looking to apply the expertise they've built over their career to something that genuinely matters.

A chance to influence significant investment decisions, help shape the future of water services, share your knowledge with others, and leave a lasting legacy for Southland communities.

Whether you're looking for a new challenge, a lifestyle change, or an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, this role offers the rare combination of strategic work, professional fulfilment, and long-term purpose.

Thinking about a change?

We won't hold it against you if you're not already a Southlander.

If you're tired of traffic jams, eye-watering housing costs, and spending more time commuting than living, it might be time to look south.

Southland offers something increasingly rare: the opportunity to build a significant career while enjoying an outstanding quality of life.

Affordable housing. Short commutes. Strong communities. World-class outdoor recreation. And the ability to be home in time for dinner.

Whether it's fishing, boating, hunting, tramping, skiing, mountain biking, or simply spending more time with family and friends, Southland gives you more of what matters.

And with Southland continuing to be one of New Zealand's strongest-performing regional economies, there's never been a better time to be part of the region's future.

By now, the better question isn't why Southland? It's why not?

What we offer

Strategic, innovative, high-impact work

The opportunity to help shape Southland's future water services

A supportive and collaborative team culture

Professional development opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

An exceptional Southland lifestyle

Build the networks communities depend on. Ensure safe, sustainable water for generations to come.

Applications close 21 October 2026

But don't leave it to the last minute. We will review applications as they are received and may progress the recruitment process before the closing date.

For more information on living in Southland and working with us visit:

Our careers page

Living in Southland