Principal Lead Water Engineer, Project Delivery (Waikato)

  • Full-time
  • State/Province: Waikato
  • Business Group: DCS
  • Legal Entity: AECOM New Zealand Limited
  • Business Line: Water
  • Work Location Model: Hybrid
  • Operating Group: International
  • Primary Location: NZ - Hamilton

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

AECOM leads the way in delivering sustainable, resilient, and future‑focused water solutions across wastewater, potable water, and stormwater systems being recognised as #1 ranking by ENR for the global water market. From advanced wastewater treatment to innovative, environmentally responsible water processes, our teams provide comprehensive, source‑to‑tap expertise from planning and pilot testing through design, construction, and commissioning. We also strengthen communities by enhancing flood and coastal resilience, advancing flood risk management, and developing cutting‑edge coastal modelling to address the climate emergency.

By joining AECOM, you become part of a collaborative network of experts tackling today’s most pressing water challenges and shaping infrastructure that protects communities, safeguards resources, and supports generations to come. 

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Everyone belongs at AECOM

We’re committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging - because great ideas come from diverse perspectives. AECOM is proud to be a Fortune 500 Most Admired Company, a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, #Work180 Equitable Workplace Awards 2025 Winner and an AWEI Bronze Tier LGBTQ+ Inclusive Employer.

Job Description

Pivotal senior role providing Water Engineering and Project Delivery leadership within AECOM’s Hamilton Water practice, delivering critical three water related infrastructure projects throughout the Hamilton and the Waikato region.  You will be providing technical input and expertise working with other AECOM technical leaders enabling the delivery of critical three water infrastructure projects (including water supply, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure), applying your local knowledge and delivery focus backed by the technical support from AECOM’s global water expertise. 

This Principal level role provides you with the opportunity to make a local difference directly contributing to the growth of AECOM’s reputation and track record across three waters projects and portfolio with a focus on the Waikato region and clients such as Hamilton City Council.  You will be connecting with and building broad and deep relationships as a trusted advisor, with key local government and regional council clients across Hamilton and the Waikato region, with the emerging water service entities, as well as working with other local water related stakeholders and regulators. 

You will be providing local project direction, supporting technical leadership and design excellence, advocating for local client and project needs, with the support of the local Hamilton AECOM team.  In addition, you will have support from technical and design teams available throughout New Zealand and globally.  Working with remote teams to support technical and delivery excellence, applying leading water solutions locally will be an important part of your role.

  • Provide input across technical and water engineering requirements, providing solutions for client and project technical queries being part of the local ‘go-to water team’ for technical assurance, project verification and delivery requirements.
  • Build client relationships across both local Hamilton and Waikato regional water clients and stakeholders as a trusted advisor, including supporting the establishment of the new water entities.
  • Support project delivery excellence across technical verification, design governance, risk management, working within project commercial requirements.
  • Contribute technical expertise both throughout the AECOM New Zealand team, as well as with global subject matter experts.
  • Work with the current local team and manager to support learning, mentoring and development of others as required.

Qualifications

The following qualifications and experience are highly desired, but if you don’t tick all the boxes you could still be a perfect fit for this role. Please apply, all applications will be considered.

You will be an experienced Water Engineering, known for your problem-solving ability, technical understanding and delivery focus of complex requirements across critical three waters and related projects.

  • Recognised for your technical and project engineering expertise, with 10+ years of experience in the planning, design and delivery of three water infrastructure projects (New Zealand experience is preferred).
  • Ideally a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) designation or equivalent international accreditation, supported by a relevant engineering or similar tertiary qualification.
  • Client relationship and interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain positive client relationships at a senior level, with established networks with Hamilton City Council and other clients across the Waikato.
  • Knowledge and an understanding of relevant NZ water and infrastructure standards, ideally including specific local requirements applicable to the Waikato region.
  • Commercial acumen and judgement with the ability to deliver results ensuring scope and quality outcomes, with tight timeframes and client budgets.

Additional Information

Why you’ll love working with us

  • Flexible work arrangements available, aligned with the market and client facing role requirements
  • Purchase up to 6 weeks additional annual leave per year         
  • Volunteer and representation leave
  • Flex public holidays – swap Easter or other holidays for ones that suit you better

Ready to push the limits of what’s possible?

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and/or neurodiverse conditions. If you require any adjustments during the hiring process, please let us know.

Applications are reviewed as they come in, and the role may close earlier than expected, so if this opportunity sounds like you, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Learn more about life at AECOM: LinkedIn, Facebook , Instagram, X, YouTube - explore our AECOM voices, employee stories, latest projects, and much more!

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 

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