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

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

Based in Auckland, Hamilton or Christchurch – Salary Banding $130,000 - $175,000 Free access to Marram health care benefits and discounted holiday homes.  Discounts for Samsung, Repco, PB Tech, Gym memberships and more! $500 bonus for current employees who refer a friend to Downer. Progression and development programs on offer including our inspiring leader’s programme for top performers.

Te kōwhiringa | The Opportunity  

We are seeking a highly capable Senior Design Engineer – Pavements to join our national Engineering Services team, based in Auckland, Hamilton and Christchurch. This is a key role within our integrated design and delivery model, responsible for providing robust, buildable pavement designs for new construction, rehabilitation and resurfacing projects.

As a senior member of the team, you will lead the development of pavement design solutions that consider materials characterisation, structural design, geometric integration, and construction practicality. You’ll ensure designs are aligned with client requirements and industry best practice, while providing technical leadership through all phases of delivery.

This role also offers the opportunity to mentor emerging professionals, contribute to knowledge sharing across our national design community, and work closely with construction teams to ensure seamless transition from design to delivery. This is a permanent role guaranteed 40 hours per week. 

Ngā pūkenga matua | What you’ll bring

We're looking for someone with a strong technical foundation and practical understanding of the full pavement lifecycle — from concept to construction. You will ideally bring:

Extensive knowledge of pavement design principles, including mechanistic-empirical methods and performance-based design Strong understanding of pavement materials characterisation (e.g. aggregates, binders, recycled materials), material behaviour, and selection for performance and constructability Experience integrating geometric design considerations into pavement solutions, ensuring alignment with road safety and constructability requirements Proven ability to liaise with operational and construction teams, ensuring designs are practical, buildable, and aligned with delivery capabilities Minimum 5 years' industry experience in a technical pavement engineering role, preferably within a consultancy or contractor environment Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical issues clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences Proactive, curious, and solutions-oriented mindset, with a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation Experience mentoring junior staff and supporting technical development across a team or region Full Class 1 Driver’s Licence and willingness to travel as required

Desirable:

Experience with CIRCLY, RAMM, AutoCAD, and/or AustPADS Familiarity with NZTA, Austroads, and local authority standards and specifications

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 you’re looking for your next career move, head to www.downercareers.co.nz, search 722415 and register your interest.

Downer NZ is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive culture.

Our workplaces are drug and alcohol free - all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre-employment drug test & medical.