Highway Quality Lead: Field Assurance & Improvement (Flexible)

nztagovtnz; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 134,000 - 148,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Flexible working arrangements

5 weeks annual leave

Income protection

Critical illness insurance

Employee benefits

Job summary

NZ Transport Agency in Christchurch is seeking a Quality Lead to drive improvements in quality outcomes across state highway maintenance and operations. You will provide subject matter expertise, lead field QA activities and implement robust processes that support consistent, high-quality delivery.

Working with delivery teams, asset management, contractors and suppliers, you will monitor construction quality in the field, especially pavement and surfacing, linking observations with QA

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in state highway construction and maintenance.
• Strong knowledge of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi standards.
• Experience with quality management systems in infrastructure.
• Ability to review and approve technical documentation.
• Understanding ISO 9001 principles and audit methodologies.
• Experience conducting site audits and quality reviews.
• Experience managing non-conformance and corrective actions.
• Excellent communication and relationship skills.
• Formal QA qualification or certification preferred.

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.

Skills

Quality assurance

Auditing

Contract compliance

Field inspections

Data analysis

Education

Engineering degree

QA certification

Job description

NZ Transport Agency in Christchurch is seeking a Quality Lead to drive improvements in quality outcomes across state highway maintenance and operations. You will provide subject matter expertise, lead field QA activities and implement robust processes that support consistent, high-quality delivery.

Working with delivery teams, asset management, contractors and suppliers, you will monitor construction quality in the field, especially pavement and surfacing, linking observations with QA