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.