Site Engineer - Kā Huanui a Tāhuna

Kā Huanui a Tāhuna is an alliance established in November 2020 between Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, and four leading design and construction partners — Beca, WSP, Downer New Zealand, and Fulton Hogan to deliver a series of cornerstone projects for Queenstown.

We are seeking an experienced Site Engineer to join the Downer Infrastructure Delivery team to join the team delivering key infrastructure changes as part of the Kā Huanui a Tāhuna programme of works, As part of the team you will assist in delivery of the Frankton interchange and Bus Hub improvements, this intersection upgrade at the meeting of state highways 6 and 6A represents the largest change to Queenstown’s roading infrastructure in 20 years, this Road of Regional Significance is building resilience both above and below ground and driving regional change.

Te kōwhiringa | The Opportunity

A flexible attitude is essential. Your role will be to manage all aspects of the civil and structural operation reporting directly to the Project Engineer. You will have the opportunity to develop and maintain strong client relationships, liaise with the public and manage certain elements of the project. You will also have a quality and safety ethos and perform audits and checks to ensure compliance with Health & Safety, quality and environmental policies.

Nga pūkenga matua | Important Skills

• Tertiary civil engineering qualification – BE Civil or NZDE
• At least 2 years civil contracting experience is essential
• Skilled in construction scheduling, ordering, field supervision, quality control, and managing all phases of production.
• Experienced in managing multiple projects with strong plant and resource knowledge.
• Demonstrates leadership behaviours that empower others; excels in whole-team functionality.
• Ability to instil a site-wide culture focused on safety and quality.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; active listening; adept at managing diverse personalities.
• Full Class 1 NZ Drivers Licence

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:

• Company vehicle and work phone included

• Free access to Marram health care benefits and discounted holiday homes

• $500 bonus for current employees who refer a friend to Downer

• Progression and development programs on offer including our inspiring leader’s programme for top performers

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 727509.

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.

The Downer Recruitment Team will be on a holiday break from 24 December 2025 and will return on 12 January 2026. During this period, we will not be contactable and responses to applications or enquiries will resume after we return. We look forward to connecting with you in the new year.