Senior Principal Engineer

Te kōwhiringa | The Opportunity

We’re looking for a highly experienced and Chartered Senior Principal Engineer to provide technical leadership across a range of complex structural and temporary works projects.

In this senior role, you’ll work closely with our National Lead, project teams, clients, and subcontractors to ensure practical, buildable, and cost-effective design outcomes that enhance site productivity and safety.

You’ll be part of Downer’s Infrastructure Delivery Business Unit, collaborating nationally with technical specialists and mentoring emerging engineers - strengthening Downer’s position as a leader in innovative and efficient structural design.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead by example, driving Zero Harm through operational excellence
• Lead and review designs for bridges, retaining walls, low-rise buildings, and temporary works (e.g. propping, scaffolding, crane platforms, and formwork)
• Provide expert technical input during design, tendering, and delivery phases to ensure constructability, safety, and cost efficiency
• Identify and implement innovation opportunities in materials, technology, and construction methods
• Manage internal and external design teams, ensuring design integrity, quality, and compliance with project specifications and standards
• Lead the development of temporary works designs on complex build-only projects
• Support site teams through construction monitoring, inspection test plans, and quality assurance
• Mentor and coach junior engineers, graduates, and cadets to build technical capability across the business
• Represent Downer within the wider industry, contributing to forums, technical groups, and thought leadership initiatives

 

Ngā pūkenga matua | About You

You’re a respected structural engineer who brings both deep technical knowledge and a practical understanding of construction. You’ll bring:

• A BE (Civil) or equivalent tertiary qualification in engineering
• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status and membership with Engineers New Zealand (MEngNZ or FEngNZ)
• 15+ years’ experience in structural engineering, ideally across a variety of civil infrastructure projects
• Proven expertise in permanent and temporary works design and construction methodology
• Strong problem-solving skills, sound judgement, and an innovative mindset
• Demonstrated leadership in mentoring, collaboration, and stakeholder management
• Excellent communication and report writing skills
• A full Class 1 driver’s licence

 

Ko te take ka parekareka e koe ki te mahi ki kōnei | Why you’ll love working with us

At Downer, we’re more than just a construction company - we’re shaping New Zealand’s infrastructure for future generations. You’ll join a team that values technical excellence, collaboration, and innovation.

We offer:

• Opportunities to work on complex, nationally significant projects
• Access to Marram Health Care benefits and discounted holiday homes
• A culture that champions safety, sustainability, and excellence
• Progression and development programs on offer including our inspiring leader’s programme for top performers
• All the tools of trade you need to do your job

 

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 732901.

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.

About UsAt Downer we plan, create and sustain. Downer is the leading provider of integrated services in Australia and New Zealand. Through trusted relationships and world leading insight we work closely with our customers to design, build and sustain assets, infrastructure, and facilities.  About the TeamDowner’s Transport & Infrastructure business manages and maintains road networks across Australia and New Zealand, with civil and commercial construction in New Zealand. We are an integrated trans-Tasman team with a leading portfolio of products and services. By sharing our capabilities and insights across our regions we achieve the best technical solutions for our customers’ challenges, and for our communities.