Senior Asset Manager

Location: Dunedin; or Invercargill for the right candidate

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

• Optimise asset maintenance and renewal for state highways

• Analyse data to inform evidence-based asset decisions

• Collaborate with experts to enhance network performance

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

As a Senior Asset Manager for Southland, you’ll be responsible for highways passing through some of the most pristine environments in the world, including the internationally renowned Milford Road. You’ll develop and oversee operational asset maintenance and renewal programmes for all assets within the state highway corridor. You’ll drive evidence-based decisions, optimise forward works programmes, and ensure strategic alignment with network needs and funding. You’ll play a key role in emergency response, investment planning, and continuous improvement—making a real impact on the safety, performance, and future of New Zealand’s transport infrastructure.

Find out more about the role here: Position Description

Ko koe tēnei | About you

You are an asset management professional with:

• Demonstrated experience in asset management for transport or complex infrastructure

• Proven ability to develop and manage forward works and long-term asset plans

• Strong understanding of pavement engineering, treatment selection, and maintenance

• Budget management and financial forecasting expertise

• Experience in asset condition assessment and programme development

• Analytical skills to translate technical data into practical strategies

• Excellent stakeholder management and contract management experience

• Tertiary qualification in civil engineering, asset management, or related discipline (or equivalent experience)

• Current Full NZ Driver’s license

Mō mātou | About Us

At Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, we’re committed to delivering great outcomes for New Zealanders—now and for the future. Our Maintenance and Operations team keeps the transport system safe, reliable, and optimised, ensuring people and freight can move efficiently every day. We value collaboration, courage, and wellbeing in everything we do.

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return

You’ll join a team that values wellbeing, collaboration, and courage. We offer:

• A competitive salary and benefits package

• Flexible working arrangements (role dependent)

• 5 weeks annual leave

• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for all permanent employees

• Appointment at a salary between $110,000.00 and $146,000.00, commensurate with skills and experience

• The opportunity to manage budgets up to $42.7M and shape the future of NZ’s critical infrastructure throughout Southland

Along with these benefits, you’ll be part of an organisation that is committed to making a difference for New Zealanders.

Ready to take the next step in your career?
We’d love to hear from you. Apply today and join a team that’s going places.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:
Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

For further information, email: [email protected]

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.