Head of Pre-Construction

Tuatara Structures Limited; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading structural steel construction company seeks a Head of Pre-Construction to lead the design management phase across projects. This key role involves collaboration with architects and engineers, ensuring compliance and buildability while enhancing innovation. If you're ready for a strategic leadership position in a high-performance environment, apply now.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in design/project leadership in construction is essential.
• Strong technical knowledge of design standards and codes.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with sharp project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design phase through to Building Consent.
• Manage resource consents and site-specific requirements.
• Drive innovation in AI and digital tools for project outcomes.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Budgeting Skills

Strategic Thinking

Technical Knowledge

Communication

Problem Solving

Innovation in AI and digital tools

Education

Degree in Architecture, Engineering or Construction Management

Tools

Procore

Job description

Add expected salary to your profile for insights

We’re specialists in large-scale structural steel buildings across the commercial and industrial sectors and we’re known for delivering faster, smarter and better. We’re proud to be 2024 Best Places to Work finalists, and even prouder of the high-performing people who drive us forward.

With strong values (Sweat, Respect, Solve, Care, Enjoy) at our core, we’re committed to helping our people grow and succeed and we’ve got some seriously exciting projects in the pipeline.

The opportunity

We’re on the hunt for an exceptional Design Manager who is ready to step up, lead and take the next step as our Head of Pre-Construction.

You’ll head up our pre-construction team, leading the design phase through to consent. You’ll work across the business collaborating with architects, engineers, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure designs are sharp, compliant, buildable, and commercially sound.

We are looking for someone who is hungry to grow and wants to lead from the front. They thrive in a high-performance environment and are excited to make an impact. This role offers the chance to contribute at a strategic level and grow into a key voice in shaping our direction.

What you’ll be doing

Lead the design phase through to Building Consent.

Manage resource consents and site-specific requirements (e.g. acoustic, environmental).

Own project and design risks through to handover.

Drive innovation in AI and digital tools to improve outcomes.

Scope, manage and hold consultants to account on delivery, time and budget.

Liaise with clients, consultants, internal teams and authorities to keep things moving.

Be a strong people leader - lifting performance, clarity and outcomes.

What You’ll Bring

Proven experience in design/project leadership in the construction industry.

A background in architecture, engineering or construction management (degree preferred).

Strong technical and practical knowledge of codes, standards and design best practice.

Sharp project management and budgeting skills with the ability to juggle multiple projects.

Proficiency in tools like Procore or similar.

Strategic thinking, strong influencing skills and a solutions mindset.

Curiosity for AI, digital tools, and tech innovation in construction.

About you

A confident communicator and natural relationship builder.

Calm under pressure and decisive when it counts.

Committed to improvement - for yourself, your team and your work.

Passionate about getting results and doing the right thing along the way.

Are you ready for your next challenge?

If you are interested in working for a company with a clear purpose and vision, we would love to hear from you! Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so don’t wait to apply!

How do your skills match this job?

How do your skills match this job?

Sign in and update your profile to get insights.

Your application will include the following questions:

Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand? How many years' experience do you have in the construction industry? How many years' experience do you have as a design manager?

To help fast track investigation, please include here any other relevant details that prompted you to report this job ad as fraudulent / misleading / discriminatory.

Researching careers? Find all the information and tips you need on career advice.