Senior Civil Engineer

Why this consultancy stands out

One of the things I enjoy most about engineering recruitment is getting out and meeting the businesses I represent.

I like to take the time to understand how they operate, what makes them different and, importantly, the sort of people who tend to thrive in their environments.

Having met with a number of engineering consultancies across Christchurch and the wider South Island, I can genuinely say that this particular business left one of the strongest impressions on me.

It wasn't just the projects they're working on, but their approach to looking after their people, the breadth of opportunities available and the culture they've managed to build.

There are a few things in particular that stood out to me.

Firstly, I think they've struck a particularly good balance in terms of size. They're large enough to offer the stability, resources and breadth of opportunities you'd expect from an established multidisciplinary consultancy, but not so large that individuals risk becoming another number.

With expertise spanning civil, structural, geotechnical and environmental engineering, surveying, planning and other specialist disciplines, there's an opportunity to work alongside professionals from a wide range of backgrounds.

Another thing that stood out was the diversity of their work. They have an interesting mix of public and private sector clients, which provides exposure to different types of projects and the opportunity to follow work through various stages of delivery. For engineers wanting to broaden their experience rather than become too specialised in one area, that's a real attraction.

I was also impressed by their approach to culture and wellbeing. They're environmentally conscious, actively support community organisations and regularly bring in guest speakers to talk about wellbeing and other topics beyond engineering.

There's a strong social side to the business too, with staff getting involved in sporting events and activities together. That said, you certainly don't need to be a keen cyclist, runner or social butterfly to enjoy working here.

Ultimately, what appeals to me is that this feels like a business where you can develop a long-term career, continue learning, take on meaningful responsibility and enjoy being part of the wider team.

The opportunity

I'm currently working with this well-established South Island engineering consultancy to recruit a Senior Civil Engineer for its newly established Wānaka office.

Having successfully delivered projects throughout Central Otago and with a strong pipeline of work in the region, the business is continuing to develop its local presence.

This is an opportunity for someone who enjoys taking ownership of projects, building relationships with clients and contributing to the growth of a regional team.

You'll have the independence that comes with working in a smaller office, alongside the resources, experience and technical expertise of a much larger multidisciplinary business.

What does the role involve?

The work is varied, covering land development, infrastructure and three waters projects throughout Central Otago and the wider South Island.

You'll be involved in projects ranging from residential subdivisions and commercial developments through to larger civil infrastructure works.

Your responsibilities will include:

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  Civil engineering design across land development, roading and infrastructure projects
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  Stormwater, wastewater and water supply design and modelling
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  Preparing engineering assessments, reports and design documentation
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  Managing projects and coordinating with clients, contractors and local authorities
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  Construction observation and administration
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  Collaborating with surveyors, planners and engineers from other disciplines
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  Contributing to the continued development of the Wānaka office

Importantly, this isn't a position where you'll be limited to producing designs behind a desk. There's an opportunity to take genuine responsibility for projects, develop client relationships and have input into how work is delivered.

About you

Ideally, you'll have at least five years' experience in civil engineering, with a background in land development, three waters or infrastructure design.

You'll bring:

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  A relevant engineering qualification, with CPEng status or progress towards chartership
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  Strong technical design skills and sound engineering judgement
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  Experience using Civil 3D
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  Exposure to stormwater or hydraulic modelling software such as SSA, EPANET or HEC-HMS
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  A good understanding of New Zealand engineering standards and codes of practice
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  The confidence to manage projects and communicate effectively with clients
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  A practical, collaborative approach and a willingness to take responsibility

Familiarity with QLDC requirements would be advantageous, although engineers considering relocating from elsewhere in New Zealand are also encouraged to get in touch.

Apply now

Opportunities like this don't tend to stay around for long, so I'd encourage you to apply now.

The engineering market across Central Otago and the wider Southern Lakes is busy at the moment, and I'm working on a number of other opportunities across the region and throughout the South Island, some of which aren't being publicly advertised.

If you're considering your next move, feel free to get in touch for a confidential discussion about the opportunities available and how I might be able to help.

You can reach me at ••••@redpathpartners.com.