Principal Advisor Transport System Policy

Auckland Council; New Zealand; Hybrid; NZD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Auckland Council is seeking a Principal Advisor Transport Policy to shape Auckland’s transport system through evidence-based strategies.

You will lead and support the development of integrated transport policies, provide trusted advice to senior decision-makers, and coordinate with council, government and sector partners to prioritise investments and deliver outcomes for communities across Tāmaki Makaurau. The role offers hybrid working and opportunities to mentor others.

Qualifications

• Relevant degree and/or postgraduate qualification.
• Approx. 10+ years' experience in policy, planning, strategy, capital programme or business case development, ideally in the public sector.
• Strong knowledge of transport systems and investment planning.

Responsibilities

• Lead or support the development of major transport strategies and policies.
• Support transport investment planning, including regional plan development and prioritisation methodology.
• Develop monitoring frameworks and policy advice for Auckland's transport system.

Skills

Analytical ability

Strategic thinking

Stakeholder engagement

Written communication

Verbal communication

Problem solving

Transport systems knowledge

Investment planning

Education

Relevant degree

Postgraduate qualification

Job description

Principal Advisor Transport System Policy

Company: Auckland Council

Job Type: Full Time

Location: New Zealand

Job Description – Principal Advisor Transport System Policy

• Help shape the future of Auckland’s transport system
• Use your strategic thinking and judgement to progress projects and provide quality advice
• Enjoy hybrid working with a mix of office and work from home days

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

This is a standout opportunity for a strategic thinker to help shape the future of Auckland’s transport system. As Principal Advisor Transport Policy, you will work at the forefront of complex, high-profile programmes that influence how Tāmaki Makaurau moves and grows.

You will lead and support the development of integrated, evidence-based strategies and policies, provide trusted advice to senior decision-makers, and bring together perspectives from across council, government and the wider transport sector. It is a chance to apply your expertise where it matters—helping ensure transport investment achieves the desired outcomes, supporting Auckland’s long-term direction and creating better outcomes for communities across the region.

Day‑to‑day you could expect to work on:

• Lead or support the development of major transport strategies and policies.
• Transport investment planning, such as supporting the development of the Regional Land Transport Plan, including prioritisation methodology.
• Develop monitoring frameworks, policy advice and submissions on issues affecting Auckland’s transport system.
• Advise elected members, the Auckland Regional Transport Committee and senior managers on a range of transport matters.
• Build strong relationships internally, with partner agencies and stakeholders.

He kōrero mōu: About you

This position calls for relevant experience in the transport sector, or within associated disciplines such as infrastructure, urban development, and economics. In addition, strong analytical capability, and a talent for translating complex evidence into clear, practical advice. You will combine strategic thinking with strong knowledge of transport systems and investment planning, along with the confidence and sound judgement to work with senior stakeholders across local and central government.

You will enjoy bringing people together, building trusted relationships and working collaboratively across organisational boundaries to achieve meaningful outcomes. The role also offers the opportunity to share your expertise, support the development of others and mentor team members as they grow their policy capability.

Specifically, we are looking for:

• A relevant degree and/or postgraduate qualification.
• Approximately 10 or more years’ experience in policy, planning, strategy, capital programme or business case development, ideally within the public sector.
• Strong knowledge of transport systems, investment planning and relevant local and central government legislation, practices and constraints.
• Demonstrated experience leading cross‑departmental or cross‑agency strategies, complex public policy documents or significant planning processes.
• Experience engaging senior stakeholders, working in a political environment and contributing to public consultation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, strategic thinking and problem‑solving skills; numerical and analytical capability would be advantageous.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders.

We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well‑being, and a culture of continuous improvement. We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.

Please view a range of our benefits.

Application close date: Sunday 8th of November at 11:59pm

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer. We serve the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, educational background, or religious beliefs. We also welcome applications from our Rainbow communities as well as disabled and neurodivergent people. We are committed to making our hiring process accessible to everyone. If you require any support or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.