Optimisation Manager

Role overview

Higgins is a major New Zealand provider of roadworks and infrastructure services, known for delivering safe, efficient, customer-centred outcomes. The organisation is seeking an Optimisation Manager to own the way maintenance and renewal activities are planned, sequenced and connected across the network.

This position suits someone who enjoys working with data, digital systems, complex problems and cross-functional teams. The role focuses on turning information into practical delivery plans that improve efficiency and help shape network optimisation.

What the role involves

In this position, you will oversee the end-to-end optimisation process across all five IDM stages: Geographic Clustering, Analysis, Integration, Sequencing and Validation. Your work will convert forward works information into an Optimised Annual Delivery Plan (OADP) that lifts value, limits disruption and supports safe, effective network performance.

You will partner with NZTA, maintenance and renewals teams, planners, asset managers and digital specialists to make sure the programme is achievable, well-sequenced and aligned with customer journey expectations.

Key responsibilities

• Direct the complete IDM-based optimisation process through all five stages.
• Convert the Forward Works Programme into an Optimised Annual Delivery Plan (OADP).
• Review multi-year programme balance, available resources and operational limits.
• Spot corridor-level sequencing opportunities that cut closures and improve delivery efficiency.
• Combine renewals and maintenance work to make the most of single-closure opportunities.
• Manage version tracking, optimisation checkpoints and programme revisions.
• Apply ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Notebooks for clustering, constraint mapping and scenario analysis.
• Bring AWM, renewals and dispatch information into the optimisation process.
• Develop and maintain Power BI dashboards for proximity-based dispatch and cross-programme optimisation.
• Evaluate customer journey effects, delay minutes and temporary traffic management requirements.
• Run optimisation workshops with NZTA, capital project teams, adjacent networks and internal stakeholders.
• Identify and control risks linked to seasonality, supply chain, land use and resourcing.
• Assist with change control, variations and evidence relating to delays and extensions of time.
• Monitor programme delivery against baseline windows.
• Drive continuous improvement in planning, sequencing and digital optimisation methods.
• Build safety considerations into sequencing and planning decisions.

What you will bring

You should have a tertiary qualification in engineering, asset management, construction, project management or equivalent practical experience.

The ideal candidate will already have experience in maintenance or renewals planning, programme optimisation or project planning, along with strong confidence using digital optimisation tools and geospatial analysis.

You will also need solid analytical ability, strong stakeholder skills and the capability to work across contractors, suppliers, NZTA and internal teams.

Requirements

• Tertiary qualification in Engineering, Asset Management, Construction, Project Management, or an equivalent background gained through experience.
• Prior experience in maintenance planning, renewals planning, programme optimisation, or project planning.
• Hands-on capability with digital optimisation tools such as ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Notebooks and geospatial analysis.
• Experience using AWM, renewals or dispatch data within planning workflows.
• Working knowledge of Power BI, including dashboard creation and data interpretation.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, including scenario modelling.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement ability.
• Ability to coordinate effectively with NZTA, contractors, suppliers and internal teams.
• Familiarity with scheduling platforms such as Primavera P6 and MS Project.
• Commitment to quality, continuous improvement and established optimisation best practice.

Benefits and perks

• Competitive salary package.
• Permanent full-time role with scope for career progression.
• Opportunity to work in a collaborative and innovative contract environment.
• Ongoing training and development support.
• A supportive team culture where your ideas and expertise are valued.
• Z fuel discounts, including one free pie and coffee each month.
• Employer KiwiSaver contribution matched up to 4%.
• Additional benefits for you and your whānau.
• A strong working environment with competitive hourly rates, subsidised medical insurance, and subsidised education and training for you and your dependants.

Additional information

Higgins is a New Zealand roading and civil infrastructure company with a strong growth outlook and a people-first approach. The business places high value on teamwork, capability development and a positive workplace culture.

The organisation operates a drug-free workplace. The selected candidate will need to complete pre-employment drug and alcohol screening as well as a health assessment.

Applications are being progressed quickly, and the employer may close the advertisement before the stated closing date. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.

Applicants from underrepresented groups are encouraged to consider this opportunity even if they do not meet every requirement listed. The company values diversity across nationalities, languages, religions, customs and lifestyles.

Māori text included in the source: “We’re with you on the road ahead – Ko tatou kei a koe i te huarahi kei mua.”