Quality Lead - Central / Lower South Island

New Zealand Government; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 134,000 - 148,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements

5 weeks annual leave

Income Protection

Critical Illness Insurance

Job summary

NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi) in Christchurch seeks a Quality Lead to drive quality improvements across state highway maintenance and operations. You will lead field quality assurance activities, provide technical guidance, and implement robust processes that ensure delivery meets standards, specifications, and contract requirements.

In this role you will monitor pavement construction quality, review documentation, manage non-conformances, analyse data, and mentor contractors and staff.

Qualifications

• Experience in state highway construction and maintenance.
• Understanding of ISO 9001 principles and audit methodologies.
• Ability to review technical documentation and QA plans.

Responsibilities

• Lead site audits and field inspections with hold-point attendance.
• Develop and implement QA frameworks and processes.
• Review Renewals Quality Plans and Inspection Test Plans.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to contractors and staff.
• Manage non-conformances and drive corrective actions.
• Analyse quality data and prepare management reports.

Skills

Quality assurance

Site audits

Field inspections

Data analysis

Documentation review

Education

Engineering/Construction degree

Quality management certification

Job description

Lead quality assurance across state highway maintenance and operationsImprove construction quality through field assurance, technical guidance and continuous improvementEnjoy autonomy, challenge, and the chance to shape roading outcomesPermanent. Full-time position based in ChristchurchHelp ensure the work delivered across New Zealand's state highway network meets the standards, specifications and quality outcomes our communities rely on.Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunityAs our Quality Lead, you will drive improvements in quality outcomes across state highway maintenance and operations within your designated area. You will provide subject matter expertise and guidance, lead field quality assurance activities and implement robust processes that support consistent, high-quality delivery.Working closely with delivery teams, operational asset management teams, contractors and suppliers, you will monitor the quality of construction activities in the field, particularly pavement construction and surfacing. You will connect field observations with quality assurance documentation, contract requirements and relevant standards to support successful deliveryKey responsibilities:Lead site audits, field inspections and hold-point attendanceDevelop and implement quality assurance frameworks and processesReview quality documentation, including Renewals Quality Plans and Inspection Test PlansProvide technical guidance and mentoring to contractors and staffManage non-conformances and support effective corrective actionAnalyse quality data, identify trends and lead targeted improvementsPrepare quality performance reporting and insights for senior managementSupport the rollout and understanding of new standards and specificationsDevelop and deliver quality-focused training for staff and contractorsContribute to the national quality community of practice and help strengthen consistency across regionsYou will find out more about the role here: Position Description. Appointment salary is from $133,632 to $148,480 commensurate with skills and experience.Ko koe tenei | About youYou are an experienced quality professional with technical knowledge of state highway construction and maintenance. You are comfortable working in both operational and field environments and can build trusted relationships while maintaining a clear focus on standards, evidence and quality outcomes.You will bring:Substantial experience in state highway construction and maintenanceStrong knowledge of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi standards and specificationsExperience with quality management systems in infrastructure, construction or maintenance environmentsThe ability to review and approve technical documentation and quality management plansA comprehensive understanding of quality assurance frameworks, ISO 9001 principles and audit methodologiesExperience conducting site audits, field inspections and quality reviewsExperience managing non-conformance processes and corrective actionsStrong analytical, risk assessment and problem-solving skillsThe ability to mentor others and build quality management capabilityExcellent communication, relationship management and influencing skillsExperience developing and delivering technical training.A tertiary qualification in engineering, construction or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experience, is required, along with a formal quality management qualification or certification. ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification and a project management qualification, or equivalent experience, would be advantageous.Mo matou | About UsOur Regional Asset and Operations team provide regional leadership and stewardship of the state highway asset and operations portfolio to ensure maintenance, improvements, and operational activities are planned and delivered safely, efficiently, and in line with national direction. The Regional Asset & Operations team translates system strategy, investment priorities, and standards into coordinated regional delivery, manages network risk and resilience, and works with partners, iwi, local government, and industry to achieve value-for-money outcomes that meet service level expectations and support a reliable transport network.Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in returnYou'll be part of a team that values wellbeing, collaboration, and courage. We offer:A competitive salary and benefits packageFlexible working arrangements (role dependent)5 weeks annual leaveIncome Protection and Critical Illness Insurance scheme for all permanent employeesAlong with our other benefits, you'll be part of an organisation committed to making a difference for New Zealanders.Ready to take on a rewarding challenge and make a real impact? Apply now and help us deliver quality outcomes for our communities.Me pehea te tuku tono | How to apply:Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.Ra Katinga | Applications close:1 November 2026For further information, email: [e-mail] be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.NZTA| Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.