Senior Water Engineer (2 positions available)

• Location, south Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch


• Full time, permanent Monday - Friday


• Competitive salary + great benefits

Position Description

He kōrero mō mātou | About us:

At KiwiRail, we connect communities, businesses, and people across Aotearoa. For more than 150 years, rail has helped keep New Zealand moving, and we are building on that legacy through safe, sustainable transport solutions.

Our purpose — Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mō Aotearoa (Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand) — guides the work we do every day. We work together to deliver reliable services that support our customers, strengthen communities, and create lasting value for New Zealand.

Safety, wellbeing, and teamwork are at the centre of how we work. We are proud to support an inclusive workplace where people feel valued and connected.

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role:

We are looking for two Senior Water Engineers to provide technical leadership across KiwiRail’s water and drainage infrastructure. You will play an important role in helping protect and strengthen the resilience of New Zealand’s rail network. One position is located in Auckland, while the other can be located in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch.

In this role, you will lead water infrastructure projects and provide technical leadership across stormwater, drainage, flood resilience, asset management and engineering assurance activities within the rail corridor. You will work closely with internal teams, consultants, contractors, and stakeholders to deliver practical, safe, and cost-effective engineering solutions.

You will contribute to the planning, design, maintenance, and long-term performance of critical infrastructure, including culverts, drainage systems, flood protection, and stormwater management.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading investigations, design development, and technical reviews for water infrastructure projects


• Supporting the safe and reliable operation of rail assets through effective drainage and flood management


• Providing technical advice on water-related design, maintenance, upgrades and asset performance within the rail corridor


• Supporting asset risk assessments and resilience planning for extreme weather and flooding events


• Contributing to engineering standards, technical practices, and continuous improvement initiatives


• Working collaboratively with internal teams and external partners to deliver quality outcomes

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

We are looking for someone who combines technical expertise with a practical and collaborative approach.

You will bring:

• A strong commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing


• Significant experience in water and drainage engineering, engineering assurance within infrastructure, transport or operational asset environments


• Strong knowledge of stormwater design, hydrology, drainage systems, and flood modelling


• Experience planning, designing, or managing infrastructure such as culverts, channels, and stormwater systems


• Confidence working with engineering standards, regulatory approvals, and consenting processes


• Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive working relationships


• A collaborative approach and willingness to share knowledge with others


• The ability to adapt and make sound decisions in changing environments


• A relevant tertiary qualification in Civil Engineering recognised by Engineering New Zealand


• Chartered Professional Engineer status, or progress towards chartership, is desirable


• Experience in flood management, river and coastal protection projects is desirable


• A current and valid New Zealand driver’s licence

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you:

At KiwiRail, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to New Zealand’s infrastructure while continuing to grow your career.

We offer:

• A competitive salary and benefits package


• Opportunities for professional development and ongoing learning


• Career progression across a nationally connected organisation


• The chance to work on complex and meaningful infrastructure projects


• A supportive team environment that values collaboration and continuous improvement


• The opportunity to help strengthen the resilience of New Zealand’s rail network for future generations

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

If you are ready to bring your water engineering expertise to a role that supports safer, more resilient infrastructure, we would like to hear from you.

Apply now and help us build stronger connections for a better New Zealand.

KiwiRail is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

 Apply online with your CV and cover letter. If you are a current KiwiRail employee, please apply using your internal profile and KiwiRail email address.

Rā aukati | Applications close: 12 July 2026 (unless filled sooner)