Project Quality Manager - Te Pae o Tararua (Ō2NL)

McConnell Dowell; Wellington; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

McConnell Dowell – Creative Construction is seeking an experienced Quality Assurance professional for a major New Zealand infrastructure project. You will drive quality management across the alliance, define supplier and subcontractor standards, and oversee the audit program to ensure compliance with project requirements.

The role requires a Lead ISO 9001 Auditor certification (preferred) and a strong track record in complex environments.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in construction or large infrastructure projects.
• Strong proficiency in Quality Management Systems and related software.
• Excellent communication skills, ensuring clarity and effectiveness in all interactions.
• Proven ability to investigate and report quality incidents with precision and thoroughness.
• Deep understanding of risk assessment, audit procedures, and NZ Standards.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement quality standards for suppliers and subcontractors based on client-specific requirements.
• Develop and maintain the Project Audit Schedule in collaboration with BU Quality and Audit Managers.
• Conduct and report audits in line with the Project Audit Schedule to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
• Establish and oversee inspection and testing controls for construction works, materials, and equipment onsite and offsite.
• Support staffing of qualified personnel to meet inspection and testing requirements outlined in the ITPs.
• Regularly monitor the use of ITPs, verification checklists, and Construction Execution Plans for consistency and accuracy.
• Analyse and evaluate inspection and test results to ensure project quality standards are met.

Skills

Quality management

Communication

Audit procedures

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor-level degree or technical qualification

Lead ISO 9001 Auditor certification (preferred)

Tools

Quality management software

Job description

About the Project

Te Pae o Tararua: Ōtaki to North of Levin (Ō2NL) highway will dramatically improve safety, resilience, and efficiency, while increasing transport choices for a growing population. The project is being delivered in partnership with NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, local hapū of Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, and Horowhenua District Council.

This is a transformative infrastructure project being delivered using a two-alliance model. Our shared project principles include treading lightly on the whenua, building strong partnerships, and delivering an enduring legacy. We’re looking for great people to join us on this unique journey.

About the Role

• Ensure all employees understand project quality management requirements relevant to their scope of work.
• Define and implement quality standards for suppliers and subcontractors based on client-specific requirements.
• Develop and maintain the Project Audit Schedule in collaboration with BU Quality and Audit Managers.
• Conduct and report audits in line with the Project Audit Schedule to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
• Establish and oversee inspection and testing controls for construction works, materials, and equipment both onsite and offsite.
• Support staffing of qualified personnel to meet inspection and testing requirements outlined in the ITPs.
• Regularly monitor the use of ITPs, verification checklists, and Construction Execution Plans for consistency and accuracy.
• Analyse and evaluate inspection and test results to ensure project quality standards are met.

About You

• 5+ years of experience in construction or large infrastructure projects, ensuring expertise in complex environments.
• Strong proficiency in Quality Management Systems and related software, driving efficiency and compliance.
• Relevant degree or equivalent technical qualifications to support industry best practices.
• Certified Lead ISO 9001 Auditor is preferred
• Proven ability to investigate and report quality incidents with precision and thoroughness.
• Deep understanding of risk assessment, audit procedures, and NZ Standards.
• Excellent communication skills, ensuring clarity and effectiveness in all interactions.

Don’t tick all the boxes but still keen?

We know that great people come from all kinds of backgrounds. If you have transferable skills, a great attitude, and the drive to contribute to a high-performing project—we want to hear from you.

About Us

McConnell Dowell – Creative Construction

Our purpose isProviding a Better Life. We do that by delivering infrastructure that connects, supports and sustains communities—and by providing career opportunities that help our people grow.

From city-shaping transport to remote energy and water projects, we’ve successfully delivered complex infrastructure across New Zealand, Australia, the Pacific and Southeast Asia for over 60 years.

Why Join Us?

The work you’ll do will have a positive, lasting impact on communities—and on your career. Our diverse projects and supportive culture offer plenty of development opportunities. With some of the best minds in the industry, we’ll help you set and reach your personal and professional goals.

We actively celebrate diversity and individuality. In a team culture that’s low on ego and high on support, you’ll be encouraged to bring your ideas and make an impact. We’re big enough to deliver legacy projects and agile enough for your voice to matter.

So, join us, be you, and help us create better together.

We are an equal opportunity employer. People of all ages, abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities and cultures are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please note: All successful applicants must have valid work rights for New Zealand and/or Pacific Islands and pass a satisfactory pre-employment medical, including drug and alcohol testing.

*Benefits listed are for those eligible.