Senior Planning Engineer - Water

Join us at New Plymouth District Council!
Tūhono mai ki Te Kaunihera-ā-Rohe o Ngāmotu!

Who are we? - Ko wai mātou?

Te Kaunihera-ā-Rohe o Ngāmotu - New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) is shaping the future of our district. We’re here to serve our community and create a place where people love to live, work and visit.

Guided by the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we’re committed to building strong partnerships that respect and celebrate our rich cultural heritage.

Innovation, sustainability and collaboration drive everything we do as we deliver services and initiatives that support our vision: a thriving, connected and future-focused district.

At Te Kaunihera-ā-Rohe o Ngāmotu, we’re proud to be an inclusive, dynamic organisation that values people, creativity and progress. If you’re passionate about making a real impact and being part of something bigger, this is the place for you.

The opportunity - Te āheinga

We’re looking for a talented Senior Planning Engineer - Water to join our high-performing Three Waters team.

In this full-time, permanent role, you’ll play a key part in shaping the future of our district’s water networks by leading the planning, analysis and development of Council’s current and long-term three waters infrastructure.

You’ll be responsible for providing expert technical insight, guiding strategic investment decisions and supporting the delivery of resilient, sustainable and community-focused water services. Working collaboratively with engineers, planners, external partners and key stakeholders, you’ll help ensure our water infrastructure is fit for purpose today - and ready for tomorrow.

If you’re passionate about using your engineering expertise to make a meaningful impact on our community’s wellbeing and future growth, this is your chance to step into a role where your work truly matters.

Key responsibilities - Ngā haepapa matua

• Assist in the preparation of master plans for the long-term development of Council infrastructure that integrates with the direction set by the District Plan
• Lead project teams for the delivery of infrastructure planning projects including the creation and analysis of network models, creation of master plans for our major treatment facilities and obtaining significant resource consents
• Ensure all network planning, design, and operations are fully compliant with relevant legislative frameworks - including the Water Services Act, RMA, and Local Government Act - while upholding Taumata Arowai performance standards, regional engineering codes, and the principles of Te Mana o te Wai
• Develop strategic, programme and detailed business cases for infrastructure projects in line with NPDC’s modified better business case approach
• Prepare project plans, consultant briefs and manage consultants
• Evaluate the impact of subdivision applications and provide advice to development engineers
• Undertake hydraulic modelling to advise and inform on the capacity of the three waters networks
• Provide input and content for the development of Asset Management Plans and the Water Service Strategy
• Work with the Strategic Planning team to develop structure plans for growth areas
• Work closely and build strong relationships with other council teams particularly focused on operations, strategic planning and projects
• Act as a translator between technical and non-technical stakeholders

Essential skills and experience - Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako

• Tertiary qualification in a civil engineering related discipline
• Seven plus years experience in 3 waters planning and design
• Experience with network modelling, preferably in Infoworks ICM and WS
• Well-developed interpersonal skills and strong stakeholder engagement experience
• Experience in 3 waters design
• Experience of asset management principles and practice
• Local Government experience
• Experience with engagement would be an advantage but is not essential

Why Taranaki? - He aha ngā hua o te rohe nei?

Taranaki isn’t just a region - it’s a way of life. Here, you’ll find the perfect blend of career opportunities and lifestyle in one incredible place. Framed by the majestic Mounga Taranaki and the sparkling Tasman Sea, this is where you can hike world-class trails, surf uncrowded beaches and immerse yourself in a vibrant arts and culture scene - all within minutes of each other.

With affordable living, great schools and a strong sense of community, Taranaki is the ideal spot to live, work and raise a family. Whether you’re chasing adventure, craving tranquillity or looking for both, life here offers an unbeatable balance that makes every day extraordinary.

What we offer - Ngā ratonga

At New Plymouth District Council, we’re not just offering jobs - we’re building careers and creating a workplace where people thrive.

When you join us, you’ll discover:

• Clear career pathways - to help you grow and succeed
• Learning and development opportunities - that keep you ahead of the game
• Support for personal and professional growth - so you can be your best self
• Plus, our People’s Package is designed with you in mind, covering five key pillars: Wellbeing, Development, Benefits, Culture and Recognition

Because at NPDC, it’s not just about what you do - it’s about who you become.

You can expect to start in this permanent, full-time role with a salary of between $95,908 - $103,366.

Why join us? - Ngā hua o tō hono mai?

Your wellbeing matters to us. We’re committed to creating an inclusive, supportive workplace where your contributions are valued and celebrated. Together, we’re shaping a vibrant future for New Plymouth - one step, one idea, one achievement at a time.

Applications close Wednesday, 11 March 2026

Be part of a council that values people, culture and opportunity.

Me tūhono mai koe kia tautoko i te Ngāmotu o āpōpō!

Te Kaunihera-ā-Rohe o Ngāmotu is an equal opportunity employer (EOE), and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.