River Engineer - Technical & Asset Support

We have a lifestyle that is second to none, with easy access to beaches, rivers, lakes, ski fields, national parks and first-class sports facilities. We pride ourselves on the support we give our team to ensure a good work‑life balance is a priority. And with affordable real estate, short commutes and a great range of schools on offer there is something for everyone!

The River Engineer - Technical & Asset Support contributes to the performance of the Catchment Technical & Design team by providing technical analysis and support to inform river management, asset planning, and operational decision-making.

The role focuses on understanding river behaviour, supporting asset management practices, and contributing to well-informed, risk-based decision-making. It works closely with asset management, operational, and planning teams to ensure river systems are managed effectively and sustainably.

Emphasis is on:

• Exercising sound judgement and developing technical expertise in river engineering
• Supporting team members and managers across the ICM Group to enable effective decision-making
• Providing technical support in river engineering, hydraulics, and river processes
• Interpreting river behaviour and monitoring data to inform management responses
• Supporting asset management, forward planning, and lifecycle thinking
• Contributing to risk-based decision-making and prioritisation of work programmes
• Assisting with programme prioritisation and optimisation

• Relevant tertiary qualification - Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Natural Resources Engineering, or a similar discipline, with progress towards CPEng desirable
• Practical industry experience - approximately 5-7 years' experience in river engineering, civil engineering, or water resources, with exposure to real-world projects and environments
• Understanding of river systems - sound knowledge of river processes, sediment dynamics, and/or flood risk management principles
• Technical analysis capability - ability to work with data, models, and field observations to support understanding of river behaviour (experience desirable)
• Exposure to asset or infrastructure environments - some experience or understanding of asset management principles and how infrastructure is planned, maintained, and optimised (desirable)
• Evidence-based thinking - able to develop practical, defensible recommendations based on technical analysis and available information
• Full driver's licence - holds a current driver's licence and can undertake field work safely and effectively

An initial offer of remuneration will be made within the range of $111,600. - $117,800.

How to apply

To download the PD, and apply for this job go to: https://environmentsouthland.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Vacancies/& enter ref code: 6914264

Please ensure you submit a CV along with a cover letter which will be a key part of our assessment process, so be sure to highlight how your experience relates to the key skills required for this role.

Applications close: 2 August 2026

Working at Environment Southland requires all of our staff to uphold the council's Te Tiriti o Waitangi responsibilities as part of their day-to-day role. This might be through the appropriate delivery of functions through various legislation where Te Tiriti o Waitangi or partnering with mana whenua is required or upholding the commitments that our elected councillors have made to Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku through the Charter of Understanding.