Design Manager - Christchurch

Stantec; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Design Manager based in Christchurch to lead technical planning and delivery for complex water infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of experience in engineering design and delivery, along with strong project management and leadership skills. This role requires coordination of multidisciplinary teams and a commitment to client-focused solutions, all while championing safety and innovation in design.

Benefits

Flexible Working Arrangements

Learning and Talent Development Programs

Health Insurance

Mental Health and Wellbeing Programs

Qualifications

• 15+ years’ experience in engineering design and delivery.
• Strong understanding of project delivery processes in consultancy.
• Proven experience managing remote and cross-disciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the design and delivery of complex water infrastructure.
• Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams.
• Manage quality outputs and ensure delivery meets scope, budget, and program.

Skills

Project Management

Communication

Leadership

Problem-solving

Education

Tertiary qualification in engineering or construction

Chartered Engineer status preferred

Job description

Design Manager

Communities are fundamental. Whether around the corner or across the globe, they provide a foundation, a sense of place and of belonging. That's why, at Stantec, we always design with community in mind.

We care about the communities we serve - because they're our communities too. We're designers, engineers, scientists, and project managers, innovating together at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships. Balancing these priorities results in projects that advance the quality of life in communities across the globe.

We’re seeking a Design Manager who combines deep technical knowledge with project leadership to oversee the design and delivery of complex water infrastructure. You’ll coordinate technical teams, connect with clients, manage quality outputs, and ensure the delivery meets scope, budget, and program.

Key aspects of the role:

• Lead technical planning and delivery across three waters infrastructure projects

• Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams, including internal disciplines and specialist consultants

• Ensure all technical outputs are safe, high-quality, and aligned with client requirements

• Monitor progress, budgets, and forward planning of all technical activities

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers and Discipline Leads to minimise rework and scope creep

• Champion safety, innovation, and sustainability in design solutions

• Manage quality reviews, QA/QC budgets and schedules with internal quality teams

• Provide client-focused solutions and develop strong relationships with contractors and stakeholders

• Mentor and support technical staff, sharing knowledge and best practice

• Contribute to bid and proposal development to support business growth

What You’ll Bring:

• 15+ years’ experience in engineering design and delivery (consultancy, contractor or client)

• Tertiary qualification in engineering or construction; Chartered Engineer, or similar, status preferred

• Strong understanding of project delivery processes in a consultancy environment

• Proven experience managing remote and cross-disciplinary teams

• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills

What We Offer

Along with a competitive salary, we offer many other benefits to ensure your professional development and wellbeing are ongoing.

· Flexible Working Arrangements including purchasing up to 4 weeks additional leave and provision for school term contracts

· Learning and Talent Development Programs including Global programmes, online learning and on-the-job learning

· Mentoring for your own development

· Professional memberships

· Health Insurance – Income Protection Insurance – Life Insurance

· Service Recognition Awards

· Mental Health and Wellbeing Programs

· Employee Assistance Program

About us

The Stantec community unites approximately 31,000 employees working in over 450 locations across six continents. We collaborate across disciplines and industries to bring water, transport and infrastructure projects to life. Our work from initial project concept and planning through design, construction and commissioning is built on a nearly 200-year history. So, when we take on a project, we see the opportunity to make a lasting connection with the people and places where we live and work.

This is an excellent opportunity to bring your expertise to a team of industry professionals. If you have been contemplating a career move, this is a key role to consider and be assured all applications are confidential. If you have any questions prior to applying, please contact [e-mail]

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Additional Information