Project Engineer

We are looking for an experienced, hands-on Project Engineer to join our team in Whangārei. This is a site-based role, supporting the delivery of civil construction projects across Northland, with most projects within driving distance of home each day.

We’re looking for someone who understands that successful civil projects require more than good engineering — they require strong planning, communication, commercial awareness and practical construction knowledge.

About the Role

As a Project Engineer, you will work closely with the Project Manager, Supervisors, Foremen and wider project team to support the successful delivery of civil construction projects.

You will have the opportunity to take ownership of key areas of project delivery, providing technical and engineering support while also being involved in the practical and commercial aspects of construction.

Your responsibilities will include

• Planning and coordinating construction activities with the Project Manager and site team.
• Providing engineering support to Supervisors, Foremen and construction crews.
• Reviewing drawings, specifications and contract requirements and identifying potential issues early.
• Managing project documentation, quality records, ITPs, inspections and technical requirements.
• Coordinating survey and setting-out requirements.
• Managing quantities, production tracking and progress measurement.
• Supporting project cost management, forecasting and monthly reporting.
• Assisting with variations, claims, extensions of time and other contractual matters.
• Working with subcontractors, suppliers, consultants and clients to resolve technical and delivery issues.
• Monitoring programme progress and identifying opportunities to improve productivity.
• Ensuring environmental controls are implemented and maintained, with particular focus on erosion and sediment control and GD05 requirements.
• Supporting health, safety, environmental and quality objectives across the project.
• Maintaining accurate project records and ensuring information is communicated effectively.
• Building strong working relationships with clients, stakeholders and the wider project team.

About You

• We’re looking for someone with a strong practical understanding of civil construction who is confident working alongside site teams and taking ownership of their responsibilities.
• To be successful in this role, you will have:
• 5+ years’ experience in civil construction and/or project engineering.
• A relevant Civil Engineering, Construction or equivalent qualification.
• Strong practical experience across earthworks, roading and drainage.
• The ability to read and interpret civil construction drawings, specifications and contract requirements.
• Experience working directly with construction crews and site management.
• A good understanding of construction methodologies, sequencing and productivity.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Good commercial awareness, including an understanding of quantities, costs, progress and forecasting.
• A practical and solutions-focused approach to problem solving.
• The confidence to make decisions and raise issues in a fast-moving construction environment.
• A full NZ driver's licence.

Desirable Experience

It would be advantageous if you also have

• Practical knowledge of Auckland Council GD05 erosion and sediment control requirements.
• Experience implementing or monitoring erosion and sediment control measures.
• Experience across bulk earthworks, pavement construction, drainage and associated civil infrastructure.
• Experience working on projects with environmental constraints or significant consent requirements.
• Construction surveying and/or survey coordination experience.
• Experience with NZ civil construction contracts, including NZS 3910.
• Experience managing subcontractors and suppliers.
• Experience using Jobpac and CCS Candy.

What We're Looking For

The right person will be someone who

• Takes ownership and gets things moving rather than waiting to be told what to do.
• Is comfortable getting out of the office and onto site.
• Understands how engineering decisions impact construction, productivity, cost and programme.
• Builds strong working relationships with Supervisors, Foremen, Project Managers, clients and subcontractors.
• Has the confidence to challenge something when it doesn't look right.
• Identifies issues early and works towards practical solutions.
• Is organised and disciplined when it comes to project administration and documentation.
• Understands the importance of accurate quantities, costs and forecasting.
• Can adapt when priorities change and projects come under pressure.
• Takes pride in delivering quality work.
• Is keen to continue developing their technical, commercial and leadership capability.

What's in it for you

• Competitive Salary based on experience
• Company Vehicle and Phone
• Access to a range of health and well-being benefits
• Personalised Development Programmes each year to support your growth and development

The Opportunity

This is a great opportunity for a Project Engineer who wants to be actively involved in construction, not simply behind a desk.

You’ll be part of a team where your technical knowledge, practical approach and ability to take ownership will make a real difference to project outcomes.

With a range of civil construction projects across Northland, this role offers the opportunity to broaden your experience, take on increasing responsibility and continue developing your career within the civil construction industry.

If you're a practical Project Engineer looking for your next challenge in Northland, we'd like to hear from you.

Please note: Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand to be eligible for this role. The successful candidate will also be required to complete pre-employment medical screening.