About the role

The Project Manager will oversee the full lifecycle of construction and infrastructure projects, ensuring they are delivered safely, on time, and within budget. They are also responsible for leading project teams, managing stakeholder relationships, and driving a culture of continuous improvement and Zero Harm.

What they look for

Project management Contract management Civil construction Infrastructure Stakeholder engagement People leadership Budget management Financial reporting Construction methodology Risk mitigation Zero harm Coaching Mentoring Resource management Strategic planning Communication

Requirements

Candidates must have at least 3 years of experience in civil engineering or the infrastructure sector with proven project management capabilities. Strong skills in contract administration, financial reporting, and leadership are essential for this role.

Benefits

Company vehicle Tools of trade Health care benefits Discounted holiday homes Progression and development programs Inspiring leader’s programme

Full description

We are seeking a motivated and commercially astute Project Manager to oversee the successful delivery of construction, maintenance, surfacing, and infrastructure projects across the Taranaki region. This is a leadership role that combines project delivery, contract management, stakeholder engagement, and people leadership.

Why you will enjoy working here | Ko te take ka parekareka e koe ki te mahi ki kōnei

Downer is committed to delivering excellence by ensuring our people have the environment and the means to be successful. We offer:

Rewarding remuneration including company vehicle and tools of trade
Free access to Marram health care benefits and discounted holiday homes
All the tools of trade you need to do your job
Progression and development programs on offer including our inspiring leader’s programme for top performers

Have a look at our other great benefits here!

The Opportunity |Te kōwhiringa

Reporting to the NPIP Operations Manager, you will be responsible for managing the full project lifecycle, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

You will lead project teams, manage resources effectively, build strong client relationships, and drive a culture of continuous improvement and Zero Harm.

Key Responsibilities:

Project & Contract Management

Deliver projects in accordance with contract specifications, budgets, and programme requirements.
Develop project methodologies, construction programmes, and cost estimates.
Manage contractual obligations, claims, reporting, and stakeholder communications.
Monitor project performance and implement effective control frameworks to ensure successful outcomes.

Leadership & People Development

Provide coaching, mentoring, and support to Site Engineers, Supervisors, and project teams.
Foster a high-performance culture focused on collaboration, accountability, and professional development.
Support succession planning and talent development initiatives.
Conduct regular performance and development reviews.

Client & Stakeholder Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and key stakeholders.
Anticipate and resolve issues proactively to ensure exceptional customer service.
Represent the business in client meetings, presentations, and project reviews.

Resource & Financial Management

Manage project budgets and financial performance.
Oversee monthly claims, forecasting, and financial reporting.
Ensure optimal utilisation of people, plant, technology, and subcontractor resources.

Health, Safety, Environment & Quality

Champion a strong Zero Harm culture across all projects.
Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and quality requirements.
Identify and mitigate project risks while maintaining industry best practice standards.

Continuous Improvement & Innovation

Challenge traditional ways of working and encourage innovation.
Implement new processes and technologies that improve performance and project outcomes.
Share learnings and best practices across the wider business.

Important Skills | Nga pūkenga matua To be successful in this role, you will bring:

Essential

Proven experience in Project Management within the civil construction or infrastructure sector.
Minimum 3 years' experience in Civil Engineering or related industries.
Strong understanding of contract administration and contract specifications.
Experience managing subcontractors, suppliers, and multiple stakeholders.
Experience preparing monthly claims and financial reports.
Excellent planning, organisational, and prioritisation skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Commitment to health, safety, and environmental excellence.
Proficiency with project management and reporting systems.

Desirable

Tertiary qualification in Engineering or a related discipline.
Project and contract management experience with responsibility for people, plant, and financial performance.

What You'll Bring

Strong leadership and people management capability.
Commercial acumen and sound decision-making skills.
A proactive, solutions-focused mindset.
The ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on project delivery.
A passion for delivering exceptional outcomes for clients and communities.

Our Organisation | Ko wai mātou

Want to know more about what it is like to work at Downer? Then head to our People Site here!

How to apply | Me pēhea ki te tono

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, click Apply Now to submit your application! The reference number for this role is 735225.

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.

At 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.

Downer’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.