Project Engineer - Earthworks - Ō2NL Project

We’re looking for a proactive and technically minded Site Engineer to join our Infrastructure Delivery team on the Ōtaki to North of Levin highway project. In this role, you’ll support the successful delivery of earthworks and local road construction activities, playing a key role in ensuring works are delivered safely, efficiently, and to a high standard.

Te kōwhiringa | The Opportunity

As part of an integrated construction team, you’ll play a key role in planning, scheduling, procurement, and implementing construction methodologies.

You’ll provide hands-on technical support across a range of activities — including excavation, cut/fill operations, subgrade preparation, pavement construction, and erosion and sediment control — ensuring works are delivered to programme, meets design specifications, and aligns with the alliance’s values.

You’ll work closely with supervisors and project teams to keep things running smoothly, efficiently, and safely on site.

About Ō2NL:

The Ōtaki to north of Levin (Ō2NL) highway will dramatically improve safety, resilience, and efficiency, as well as increasing transport choices for the area’s growing population. The Ō2NL project is led in Ppartnership with NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, local hapū of Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga and council partner Horowhenua District Council.

This transformative project is being delivered using a two-alliance approach, with each alliance delivering a section of the road and associated works. Together alliance partners are working to create a positive legacy for the region, led by our project principles to tread lightly with the whenua and create an enduring legacy. We are seeking excellent people for this unique opportunity to work and collaborate with leading industry organisations.

Nga pūkenga matua | Important Skills

Tertiary qualification in Civil Engineering or a related discipline.
2–4 years’ experience in civil construction, ideally with a focus on earthworks, roading, or site development.
Proven ability to interpret design drawings, specifications, and survey data.
Experience with inspection and test plans (ITPs), compaction testing, and material compliance.
Familiarity with erosion and sediment control measures, cut/fill operations, and site stabilisation techniques.
Competence in site-based delivery, including coordination of labour, plant, and subcontractors.
Experience using tools such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Trimble, or GPS-based machine control system beneficial
Understanding of New Zealand standards, local council regulations, and environmental compliance.
Ko te take ka parekareka e koe ki te mahi ki kōnei | Why you will enjoy working here

Downer is committed to delivering excellence by ensuring our people have the environment and the means to be successful. We offer:

Working for a progressive and reliable organisation, you will be offered a competitive remuneration package and the opportunity to grow and develop your career.
You will receive ongoing mentoring, training, and development opportunities to ensure your knowledge and skills continue to be industry leading and your career opportunities limitless in an organisation the size of ours.
We pride ourselves on our socially responsible, inclusive, and diverse culture, that includes a Zero Harm tolerance.
We are Rainbow tick certified and members of Diversity Works.
We also encourage our people to participate in community volunteering initiatives and pay for the time you spend helping to make our community better with Downer's volunteer leave.
Have a look at our other great benefits here!

Ko wai mātou | Our Organisation

Want to know more about what it is like to work at Downer? Then head to our People Site here!
Me pēhea ki te tono | How to apply

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, click Apply Now to submit your application! The reference number for this role is 721698.

We are committed to a safe working environment for everyone - all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre-employment drug test, medical and a Ministry of Justice check prior to starting employment. If you need support with this requirement, please talk to our team. Read more