Strategic Advisor/Lead - Infrastructure

Masterton District Council is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace; one that embraces the strength diversity brings, and that is truly reflective of the many communities we serve. Through our work, we aim to give genuine and meaningful effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and to become a better Te Tiriti partner.

We encourage applications regardless of race, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, or disability.

We strive to be a place where our people can thrive and feel empowered - as part of their team and as individuals - because we believe our organisation should be one where everyone feels supported and included in their role.

So, what's it like to work at Masterton District Council - Working at Masterton District Council

 

He angitūtanga | The opportunity:

Are you an experienced and talented Advisor with an interest in how infrastructure helps to create a great place for our people? Join the Masterton District Council team as Strategic Advisor/Lead Infrastructure.

 

This full-time permanent position sits within our Strategy Team providing strategic leadership and support for Infrastructure projects, with a particular emphasis on community infrastructure such as parks, reserves and community facilities.

The work is varied and interesting offering plenty of opportunities to keep growing your skills and experience while making a difference for our community.

Work will include leading on key infrastructure related strategies and initiatives, such as our new Sports Facilities Strategy. and facilitating input into our new Development Plan.

This will involve undertaking research and analysis, bringing information together in a way our community can engage with, and seeking community views to help shape Council decisions.

You will have strong core skills including critical thinking, writing and analysis, project management experience, and an interest in supporting/mentoring others in your area of expertise. You will also have great communication skills and the ability to connect with a diverse range of people.

Ideally you will have experience in a policy, planning or strategy role within central or local government. An understanding of legislation relevant to community assets and facilities, such as the Local Government Act and Reserves Management Act, would be an advantage. Knowledge or experience of reserve management, spatial, corporate and/or asset/ infrastructure planning would also be helpful.

We have the flexibility to appoint as a Lead or as an Advisor/Senior Advisor so we are open to applications from candidates who could slot into the ‘Lead’ role now, or those aspiring towards a Lead role in the near future.

Further information about this role and about Council can be found by downloading the position description or by contacting the Strategic Planning Manager Tania Madden on 06 370 6300.

 

He kōrero mōu | About you:

• Relevant tertiary qualification – e.g. law, economics, public policy, political science.
• Preferred but not essential – experience working in of local or central government
• Advantage – experience working with or knowledge of legislation relevant to community infrastructure, such as the Local Government Act (2002) and Reserve Management Act (1977).
• Strong policy and/or strategy and/or planning background with experience interpreting legislation and undertaking research/analysis
• Excellent critical thinking and analysis skills, with the ability to seek and consider a range of perspectives.
• Strong verbal and written skills, including the ability to ask questions and investigate matters, to synthesise complex information into ‘easy to read’ content and to present this in both formal and informal settings.
• Excellent project management skills and a strong process orientation with the ability to coordinate a range of tasks to achieve objectives and deliver on time.
• Experience leading/supporting strategic infrastructure projects, in particular community infrastructure, would be an advantage
• Legal qualification/training would be an advantage.
• Good skills in the Microsoft Office suite.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer:

At MDC we look after our people. Benefits for Council staff include:

• Five weeks’ Annual Leave
• Free medical insurance for you and your family
• Fifteen days Sick Leave, plus an additional five days’ Domestic Leave
• Annual Wellbeing Allowance
• Great Parental Leave conditions  
• Flexible working options
• Developmental opportunities
• An active social club.

By joining MDC, you'll not only enjoy these benefits but also make a positive contribution to our amazing community!

 

Applying:

If this opportunity excites you and you have the relevant skills and experience, apply now by submitting your cover letter, employment application and CV. Through to peopleandculture@mstn.govt.nz, before 5:00pm, Friday 17 October 2025.