Development Engineer


Help shape the growth of Waipā and the communities of tomorrow.

Waipā is one of New Zealand's fastest-growing districts, and we're looking for a proactive, solutions-focused Development Engineer to help ensure growth is well planned, connected and delivered to a high standard.

We're also recruiting for a Senior Development Engineer at the same time. Both roles are part of our Development Engineering team, working closely together to support quality development outcomes. The Senior role provides greater technical leadership across complex projects, while this role is focused on delivering development engineering advice, assessment and oversight across a varied portfolio. Click here to be taken to the Senior Development Engineer advert.

Ko wai mātou | About us

Rich in heritage and proudly known as the Home of Champions, Waipā is experiencing significant growth across our towns and communities. At Waipā District Council, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside developers, consultants, contractors, internal teams and our communities to help shape how the district develops.

Our Development Engineering team is collaborative, technically focused and committed to finding practical solutions that enable growth while protecting the long-term interests of the district.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

As a Development Engineer, you'll provide engineering advice and support across subdivision and land use projects, helping ensure development meets Council requirements and is delivered safely, sustainably and to a high standard.

It's a varied role covering development consent assessments, engineering design reviews, site inspections, vehicle crossings and certification. You'll work closely with developers, consultants, contractors and internal teams to provide practical advice, resolve issues and deliver good development outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Assessing subdivision and land use applications and providing development engineering recommendations.
  • Reviewing engineering designs and supporting s223 and s224 certification processes.
  • Leading vehicle crossing applications and providing advice to developers, contractors and the public.
  • Monitoring and auditing subdivision and land use works through site inspections.
  • Providing advice on roading, three water services, infrastructure and engineering requirements.
  • Contributing to improvements in Council standards, processes, procedures and bylaws.
  • Working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to resolve issues and achieve practical outcomes.

Ko wai koe | About you

You're a practical and solutions-focused engineer who enjoys working with people as much as solving technical problems. You're organised, confident communicating with a range of stakeholders and comfortable applying technical requirements to real-world development projects.

You'll bring:

  • A Diploma or relevant tertiary qualification in engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent.
  • At least five years' experience in engineering, infrastructure or a related role.
  • Experience or a strong understanding of development engineering, infrastructure, roading, three waters and earthworks.
  • The ability to interpret technical information, legislation, standards and engineering designs.
  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
  • Good judgement and a practical approach to problem solving.
  • Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
  • A collaborative approach and the confidence to work with a range of developers, consultants, contractors and community stakeholders.

A Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) or equivalent would be desirable, as would previous local government experience.

Ngā huanga | Benefits

This is an opportunity to work on projects that will have a lasting impact on one of New Zealand's fastest-growing districts, while building your technical expertise and development engineering career.

Waipā District Council offers:

  • Ongoing professional development and study support.
  • Health and life insurance.
  • Flexible working arrangements.
  • Local staff discounts.
  • Subsidised fitness memberships.
  • Additional leave over Christmas/New Year.
  • Offices in both Cambridge and Te Awamutu.
  • A collaborative and supportive professional environment.
  • Meaningful work that directly contributes to the future of our communities.

We're recruiting for both Development Engineer and Senior Development Engineer positions. If you're an experienced development engineer looking for greater technical leadership, mentoring and responsibility across complex projects, check out our Senior Development Engineer opportunity as well.

For a confidential kōrero, please contact David Dugmore via david.dugmore@waipadc.govt.nz.

Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand.

Applications close: Wednesday 9 September at 10:00pm

Apply now

Permanent Full Time

Job no: 39287LGC

Location: Waipa

Closing Date: Wednesday, 9 September 2026