Quality Lead - Central / Lower South Island

• Lead quality assurance across state highway maintenance and operations
• Improve construction quality through field assurance, technical guidance and continuous improvement
• Enjoy autonomy, challenge, and the chance to shape roading outcomes
• Permanent. Full-time position based in Christchurch

 

Help ensure the work delivered across New Zealand’s state highway network meets the standards, specifications and quality outcomes our communities rely on.

 

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

 

As our Quality Lead, you will drive improvements in quality outcomes across state highway maintenance and operations within your designated area. You will provide subject matter expertise and guidance, lead field quality assurance activities and implement robust processes that support consistent, high-quality delivery.

 

Working closely with delivery teams, operational asset management teams, contractors and suppliers, you will monitor the quality of construction activities in the field, particularly pavement construction and surfacing. You will connect field observations with quality assurance documentation, contract requirements and relevant standards to support successful delivery

 

Key responsibilities:

• Lead site audits, field inspections and hold-point attendance
• Develop and implement quality assurance frameworks and processes
• Review quality documentation, including Renewals Quality Plans and Inspection Test Plans
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to contractors and staff
• Manage non-conformances and support effective corrective action
• Analyse quality data, identify trends and lead targeted improvements
• Prepare quality performance reporting and insights for senior management
• Support the rollout and understanding of new standards and specifications
• Develop and deliver quality-focused training for staff and contractors
• Contribute to the national quality community of practice and help strengthen consistency across regions

 

You will find out more about the role here: Position Description. Appointment salary is from $133,632 to $148,480 commensurate with skills and experience.

 

 

Ko koe tēnei | About you

You are an experienced quality professional with technical knowledge of state highway construction and maintenance. You are comfortable working in both operational and field environments and can build trusted relationships while maintaining a clear focus on standards, evidence and quality outcomes.

 

You will bring:

• Substantial experience in state highway construction and maintenance
• Strong knowledge of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi standards and specifications
• Experience with quality management systems in infrastructure, construction or maintenance environments
• The ability to review and approve technical documentation and quality management plans
• A comprehensive understanding of quality assurance frameworks, ISO 9001 principles and audit methodologies
• Experience conducting site audits, field inspections and quality reviews
• Experience managing non-conformance processes and corrective actions
• Strong analytical, risk assessment and problem-solving skills
• The ability to mentor others and build quality management capability
• Excellent communication, relationship management and influencing skills
• Experience developing and delivering technical training.

 

A tertiary qualification in engineering, construction or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experience, is required, along with a formal quality management qualification or certification. ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification and a project management qualification, or equivalent experience, would be advantageous.

 

Mō mātou | About Us

Our Regional Asset and Operations team provide regional leadership and stewardship of the state highway asset and operations portfolio to ensure maintenance, improvements, and operational activities are planned and delivered safely, efficiently, and in line with national direction. The Regional Asset & Operations team translates system strategy, investment priorities, and standards into coordinated regional delivery, manages network risk and resilience, and works with partners, iwi, local government, and industry to achieve value-for-money outcomes that meet service level expectations and support a reliable transport network.

 

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return

You’ll be part of a team that values wellbeing, collaboration, and courage. We offer:

• A competitive salary and benefits package
• Flexible working arrangements (role dependent)
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance scheme for all permanent employees
• Along with our other benefits, you’ll be part of an organisation committed to making a difference for New Zealanders.

 

Ready to take on a rewarding challenge and make a real impact? Apply now and help us deliver quality outcomes for our communities.

 

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:
Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

 

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

1 November 2026

For further information, email: [email protected]

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.