Senior Sustainability Advisor

• Lead and embed sustainability outcomes across KiwiRail’s operations and capital projects


• 10‑month fixed term contract parental leave cover based in Auckland


• Drive climate resilience, carbon reduction, and sustainability strategy delivery

Position Description

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role:

KiwiRail is undergoing significant transformation to modernise and grow our rail and ferry services across Aotearoa. As a Senior Sustainability Advisor, you will play a key role in advancing our sustainability capability and delivering meaningful environmental, social, and economic outcomes.  Reporting into the Sustainability Manager, this is a 10‑month fixed term opportunity covering parental leave, where you will provide expert advice across operations, infrastructure, and capital projects. You will help embed sustainability into systems, processes, and decision-making, ensuring our Sustainability Strategy is effectively delivered across the organisation.

What you’ll be doing:

• Leading our climate resilience workstream -and delivering actions from our Climate Adaptation Plan.


• Driving key workstreams such as carbon reduction and modern slavery initiatives


• Providing expert advice across capital projects to achieve strong sustainability outcomes, including monitoring and reporting on sustainability performance


• Support strategic communication on sustainability issues and submissions and feedback by KiwiRail on climate policy, reports and initiatives


• Embedding sustainability into business planning, strategy, and project delivery


• Building strong relationships with internal leaders, customers, and suppliers


• Supporting organisational capability uplift and continuous improvement

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What you will bring:

• 5+ years proven experience in sustainability strategy and delivery within complex organisations


• Strong knowledge of sustainability frameworks, climate resilience, and environmental practices


• Experience influencing senior stakeholders and embedding change


• Strong project management and problem-solving capability


• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills


• A collaborative, adaptable approach with a passion for sustainability

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you:

• Competitive salary plus 4% KiwiSaver contribution


• Discounted medical insurance and staff travel benefits


• Access to the NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust


• Ongoing professional development and career opportunities


• Exposure to a complex, nationally significant operating environment


• Supportive and collaborative team culture

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to make a difference?

If you’re passionate about sustainability and want to help shape the future of rail in Aotearoa, we’d love to hear from you.

Bring your expertise, influence, and drive to help KiwiRail deliver Stronger Connections for a Better New Zealand.

Rā aukati | Applications close: Tuesday 30th of June 2026

Applicants must hold New Zealand residency or citizenship 

KiwiRail is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can feel valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences because together we are stronger.