Project Controls Specialist

• Partner to deliver project outcomes and performance excellence through implementation of effective project controls, risk management and governance reporting. 

• Join a high-performing team that is shaping New Zealand's future transport system. 

• Civil Engineering graduates and project controls scheduling and cost control professional with 3 - 4 yrs experience is desirable. 

 

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity 

We're looking for a Project Controls Specialist to provide specialist project controls skills across a portfolio of infrastructure projects. Working closely with Project Directors, Project Managers and project teams, you'll help ensure projects are delivered successfully through effective cost management, scheduling, scope management, risk management, reporting, and project governance. 

 

As part of the Infrastructure Development & Delivery business group, you'll contribute to projects that connect people, products and places across Aotearoa while supporting continuous improvement in project controls practices and frameworks. 

 

You can find the position description here. 

 

We are seeking to appoint an experienced Project Controls professional commensurate with skills and experience. 

 

Key responsibilities include: 

• Managing project controls and associated project deliverables across assigned projects. 

• Supporting project teams with cost forecasting, budgeting, scheduling and risk management and reporting. 

• Maintaining and analysing project valuation information, including cashflow forecasting and variance analysis. 

• Coordinating high-quality project and programme reporting for key governance and project stakeholders. 

• Supporting the identification, management and escalation of project risks and issues. 

• Building trusted relationships with project team members, suppliers, internal and external project stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. 

• Contributing to the continual improvement of project management tools, methodologies and reporting practices. 

 

Ko koe tēnei | About you 

You'll bring strong project controls knowledge and expertise with a passion for delivering quality outcomes in a complex infrastructure environment. 

 

To be successful in this role, you will have: 

• Experience working on complex projects, programme or project delivery environment. 

• Demonstrated project controls experience across cost management, scheduling, scope management, risk management and governance reporting. 

• The ability to identify adverse trends, risks, opportunities and issues and implement proactive solutions and recommendations. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities. 

• Experience building effective relationships and working collaboratively with a broad range of partners and stakeholders. 

 

Ideally, you'll also have: 

• Experience supporting civil engineering, transport or infrastructure projects. 

• Knowledge of procurement processes, contract management and performance monitoring, including NZS and collaborative contracting environments. 

• Experience using project management and SAP financial systems. 

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Business, Commerce, Engineering or a related discipline. 

• A project or programme management qualification. 

 

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application within the public service. 

 

Mō mātou | About us 

Working within the Infrastructure Development & Delivery business group, you'll have the opportunity to influence and help deliver New Zealand's future transport system. NZTA is New Zealand's largest infrastructure delivery agency, planning, designing, delivering, managing and operating a nationally integrated transport network in partnership with communities, local government and industry. 

 

Our work has a direct impact on how people live, travel, work and connect. You'll be part of a highly capable team committed to delivering infrastructure that benefits all New Zealanders. 

 

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

At NZTA, you'll be part of a team that is passionate about making a difference for New Zealanders. 

 

Along with a competitive salary, you'll enjoy: 

• Flexible working arrangements. 

• Career development opportunities across a diverse infrastructure portfolio. 

• Working alongside some of New Zealand's leading infrastructure professionals. 

• Five weeks annual leave. 

• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for permanent employees. 

• A collaborative and inclusive culture that supports growth and development. 

 

Ready to take the next step in your project controls career? We'd love to hear from you. Apply today and join our team who is going places. 

 

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:

25 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.