Project Lead (Dwsr)

CGR Services; Wellington; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Taumata Arowai, New Zealand's Water Services Authority, seeks an experienced Project Lead to drive the review of the Drinking Water Standards. You will coordinate a national programme spanning water science, public health, policy and regulation, engaging with ministers, senior leaders, local government and industry stakeholders.

Based in Wellington, this role leads evidence assessment, policy development, public consultation and implementation planning, delivering high-quality advice to

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end review of the Drinking Water Standards with a multidisciplinary project team.
• Manage engagement with central and local government, industry stakeholders, technical experts, mana whenua and iwi Māori.
• Commission and manage specialist technical advice, including procurement activities and external contracts.
• Provide high-quality advice and reporting to senior leaders, governance groups, the Board and Ministers.

Job description

Project Lead (DWSR) New Zealand Government Wellington - Wairarapa, Wellington, NZ

Job summary New Zealand's Drinking Water Standards are due for review. Work has commenced and will continue through into 2028. Over time, the body of international public health and scientific evidence grows, improving global understanding of the health impacts of contaminants that may be present in drinking water. New Zealand's drinking water standards require regular review to keep up with the advancing science. The review will require commissioning and assessing technical reports, advising on whether any changes to the standards are required and managing significant engagement across central and local government, as well as many other interested parties. If you are an experienced leader who thrives in complex environments and wants to help shape the future of drinking water regulation in New Zealand, we'd love to hear from you.

Ko wai mətou | About us

The Water Services Authority - Taumata Arowai (the Authority) was established as a Crown Entity in 2021, following the outbreak of illness in the Havelock North community as a result of drinking contaminated water from the public water supply. The Authority oversees and regulates the safety and quality of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services across New Zealand. We do this on behalf of consumers and communities throughout New Zealand, so they can have confidence in the safety and quality of their drinking water and the impact on their environment. If you're a passionate and driven individual who shares our vision for making water safe everyday for everyone, then join us and be part of making a difference.

MŌ tēnei tūāranga mahi | About this role

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Project Lead for the review of New Zealand's Drinking Water Standards. This is a unique opportunity to lead a nationally significant programme that will shape drinking water regulation, influence public health outcomes, and support safe drinking water. Working across water science, public health, policy and regulation, you will lead a multidisciplinary programme through evidence assessment, policy development, public consultation and implementation planning. You will engage directly with senior government leaders, technical experts, local government and industry stakeholders on a high-profile programme. The Project Lead will:Lead the end-to-end review of the Drinking Water Standards with a multidisciplinary project team Manage engagement with central and local government, industry stakeholders, technical experts, mana whenua and iwi Māori. Commission and manage specialist technical advice, including procurement activities and external contracts. Provide high-quality advice and reporting to senior leaders, governance groups, the Board and Ministers Innovation and creativity are key drivers in the way we work - our size requires us to be smart and agile.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

We are looking for someone who has: Significant experience leading complex projects or programmes, preferably within the public sector. Experience working with Ministers, senior leaders, governance groups and external partners. Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills. A background in water, environmental science or public health would be a benefit but not critical. To learn more about working at Taumata Arowai, please visit our Working Here page.

RĊ Katinga | Applications close Wednesday 16 September 2026

You must have a legal right to work in New Zealand at the time of submitting your application.