Project Engineer

About the role

This is a practical, delivery-focused Project Engineer position in which you will lead maintenance and capital projects across an electricity distribution network. The role covers the full project lifecycle, from early scoping and detailed design through to construction and final close-out.

The work is varied and technically engaging, and it directly supports public safety and the reliability of electricity supply for the local community. You will collaborate with a capable group of engineers, field teams, and other business units who are committed to completing work safely and to a high standard.

Key responsibilities

• Take charge of detailed design and delivery for maintenance and capital works, ensuring alignment with company standards and accepted industry practice.
• Prepare and manage project financials, including estimates, budgets, accruals, and forecasts.
• Lead tendering activity, assess submissions, and oversee contracts and specialist service providers.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders and external contractors to keep projects on schedule and within budget.
• Support the ongoing development and refinement of engineering standards and design procedures.

What you will bring

You should have a relevant trade, technical, or tertiary qualification in electricity supply, engineering, or a closely related field. Experience in the New Zealand electricity distribution sector is preferred, with exposure to substation design, protection/communications design, transmission, generation, or a similar utility environment being particularly valuable.

Strong technical and electrical design capability, together with project management experience, is important. You will also need experience handling project finances, managing tenders and contracts, and understanding the regulated electricity distribution environment, including the Electricity Act and the Safety Manual Electricity Industry (SMEI). Experience with control room operations is also required.

On the personal side, you will bring a strong commitment to safety and a willingness to actively strengthen safety culture. Clear communication, the ability to build productive relationships, and a steady, practical approach when under pressure are all essential.

About the organisation

Network Waitaki is based in Oamaru, a coastal town in Otago, and supplies electricity from the national grid to more than 13,500 connected customers across North Otago and parts of South Canterbury. The organisation also delivers electrical construction and maintenance services throughout New Zealand.

With a team of more than 100 people, the company’s purpose is to support regional growth and wellbeing through innovative and sustainable energy solutions.

What is on offer

• A competitive salary package.
• Company-provided health insurance.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• The chance to make a meaningful impact in a business that powers the local community.
• A lifestyle in the Waitaki region, with scenic surroundings, strong schools, and a welcoming community.
• A values-led, collaborative workplace where safety and service are priorities.
• An inclusive environment that values different perspectives and backgrounds.

Additional information

This is a full-time, permanent role based onsite in Oamaru, Otago, New Zealand.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand. The hiring process includes pre-employment medical checks and Ministry of Justice checks.

The closing date for applications is Friday, 17 July 2026.

For further questions or a confidential discussion about the role, contact [email protected].