Water Engineer

Tau ake rā te moana nei, e papaki kau ana ki te ākau tangata, kakenga waka ka mauru te tohu ki te arearenga o Mauao, he pou herenga mōu, he pou hononga mōu, kia herea ki te tika, kia herea ki te pono. Kia mau, kia ita, kia ū – haumi e, hui e, tāiki e!

Te Tūranga | About the role

We’re looking for a Water Engineer to join our Water Supply team. This permanent role supports the planning, renewal, and growth of Tauranga’s drinking water network. You’ll help make sure our water infrastructure is reliable, safe, and ready for the future.

You’ll work closely with internal teams, contractors, consultants, iwi and hapū, and the wider community to deliver high-quality water supply projects. You’ll also represent the asset owner throughout the design and delivery process, making sure everything meets safety, compliance, and performance standards.

We’re especially interested in someone who is comfortable using new technologies and digital tools to improve how we manage and operate the water network.

What you’ll do

• Lead water network upgrades and renewal projects, including reducing leakage, improving metering, and preventing backflow.
• Provide engineering input for new developments and areas of growth.
• Work with operations and maintenance teams, contractors, and consultants to deliver infrastructure projects.
• Develop business cases and funding proposals.
• Explain technical information clearly to people who aren’t engineers.
• Use digital tools and new technologies to support decision-making and improve network performance.

 Ngā Pukenga | What you’ll need to succeed

To thrive in this role, you’ll bring

• A degree in engineering (civil, mechanical, or electrical).
• 5–8 years’ experience working with water networks.
• Skills in water network design, data analysis, and reporting.
• Strong communication skills—you can explain complex ideas clearly.
• Experience managing contractors and overseeing project delivery.
• A practical mindset and a passion for improving systems and processes.
• Confidence using digital platforms and tools as part of your work.
• Experience leading people is a bonus.

Tō Tātou Kaunihera |About Tauranga City Council

At Tauranga City Council, our Waters Division plays a vital role in shaping the future of our city’s water infrastructure and services. Whether it's managing stormwater, improving freshwater systems, or delivering innovative solutions for water supply and wastewater, our team is at the forefront of protecting and enhancing Tauranga’s natural environment and community wellbeing.

We’re proud to be one of Tauranga’s largest employers, and we’re always looking for passionate, skilled professionals to join our collaborative and community-focused team. In the Waters Division, you’ll be part of a group that values technical excellence, teamwork, and making a real impact.

To support our people, we offer:

• Five weeks of annual leave
• Career development opportunities to help you achieve your professional goals
• A strong team culture where your contributions are valued and your wellbeing is supported

If you're ready to help shape the future of water in Tauranga, we’d love to hear from you.

Te Tukanga | How to apply

For any questions about the role, please contact Barry Sarjeant at barry.sarjeant@tauranga.govt.nz

Please note we will not be accepting applications via email. If you wish to apply, please click ‘Apply’ at the bottom of this page and follow the link.

Applications will close Sunday 19th October 

We’re committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those living with disabilities.
If you need any support or adjustments to take part in our recruitment process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at recruitment@tauranga.govt.nz

• You must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.
• Tauranga City Council does not accept unsolicited contact or applications from recruitment agencies. We will not pay fees or commissions related to unsolicited contact.

Job Description: Water Engineer