Marine Engineering Project Lead

Marine Engineering Project Lead

• Play a Critical Role in KiwiRail’s Transformation


• Permanent full‑time role with flexible working options


• Based in Wellington

Position Description

He kōrero mō mātou | About Us

At KiwiRail, we’re shaping the future of Aotearoa New Zealand’s transport system — connecting people, freight and communities in more sustainable ways. As a State‑Owned Enterprise with more than 150 years of history, rail and Interislander ferry services continue to play a vital role in supporting New Zealand’s economic, social and environmental wellbeing.

Guided by our purpose Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mō Aotearoa – Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand, we are delivering significant transformation across our rail and ferry networks. This is an opportunity to join an organisation where your expertise will directly contribute to nationally significant infrastructure and transport services.

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the Role

We’re seeking an experienced Marine Engineering Project Lead to support engineering team in day to day operations and take charge for delivery of engineering projects across Interislander vessels and shore assets. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, this role plays a critical part in planning, coordinating and supervising maintenance, repair, upgrade and dry‑dock projects to ensure assets are returned to service safely, efficiently and on budget.

Working across both ship and shore environments, you will partner closely with ship crews, contractors, suppliers and internal stakeholders to deliver complex engineering work in a highly regulated, operational setting. This role also supports the every day engineering functions for ships and contributes to longer‑term asset management and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support delivery of maintenance, repair, upgrade, dry‑dock and wet‑dock projects across the Interislander fleet and shore assets


• Plan, coordinate and supervise major out‑of‑service works to ensure safe, compliant and timely delivery


• Ensure all works meet Flag State, Classification Society, legislative and Zero Harm requirements


• Manage contractors and suppliers, including planning, performance oversight and issue resolution


• Provide regular reporting on project progress, costs, risks and assurance


• Support engineering department operations, including requisitions, reporting and delegated tasks


• Contribute to asset management planning, capital works programmes and continuous improvement initiatives


• Act as a key liaison between ship crews, shore teams and wider stakeholders to support effective delivery with minimal customer disruption

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What You Will Bring

• Engineering or trade qualification (essential); project management qualification desirable


• Strong experience in heavy engineering environments such as maritime or similar industries


• Proven experience delivering engineering projects and managing contractors


• Solid understanding of safety, regulatory and compliance requirements in complex operational settings


• Strong planning, budget management, organisational and problem‑solving skills


• Ability to build effective relationships and work collaboratively across ship‑to‑shore teams


• Calm, practical and solutions‑focused approach in high‑pressure or time‑critical environments


• Sailing experience and STCW qualifications are desirable

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for You

• Competitive salary plus 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution


• 5 weeks annual leave


• Southern Cross medical insurance at staff rates


• Discounted staff travel and a wide range of corporate discounts


• Access to the NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust, including holiday homes and health support


• Ongoing professional development opportunities


• The chance to work on nationally significant infrastructure and fleet programmes


• Be part of a values‑driven organisation where safety, wellbeing and collaboration come first

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re an experienced engineering professional who enjoys solving complex problems and making a tangible impact in a national transport environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Applications close: 9 June 2026

Please note: Appointment is subject to passing a pre‑employment medical and drug and alcohol screening. New Zealand residency or citizenship is required.