Senior Project Manager

JobSpace; Nelson; On-site; NZD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Downer in Tasman is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead a portfolio of Three Waters initiatives across water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. You will coordinate from concept through to delivery, partnering with councils, contractors and consultants to safeguard public health and environmental outcomes.

You will mentor and develop team members, identify opportunities for regional growth, and drive safety, quality and continuous improvement across projects in the Top of the

Qualifications

• Experience leading civil, infrastructure, utilities or construction projects.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication abilities.
• Commercial and financial management skills.
• People leadership and team development.

Responsibilities

• Lead a diverse portfolio of Three Waters projects from concept through to completion.
• Coordinate with councils, contractors, consultants and stakeholders to deliver outcomes.
• Mentor and develop talent within the project team.
• Identify new opportunities and help grow regional business.

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Shape the Future of Water in the Top of the South

Are you ready to lead projects that genuinely make a difference to communities?

At Downer, we're looking for an experienced and ambitious Project Manager to join our growing Three Waters team in Tasman. This is more than just a project management role. It's an opportunity to deliver critical water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure that protects public health, enhances environmental outcomes, and supports the future growth of our region.

The opportunity

Every day brings something different. One week you might be delivering a wastewater treatment plant upgrade, the next coordinating network renewals, pump station improvements, or innovative infrastructure projects that help build more resilient communities. You'll enjoy:

• Leading a diverse portfolio of Three Waters projects
• Managing projects from concept through to completion
• Working with industry leading operational and technical experts
• Building strong relationships with councils, contractors, consultants and stakeholders
• Identifying new opportunities and helping grow our regional business
• Developing and mentoring talented team members
• Making a visible impact on community infrastructure

We're looking for a leader who thrives on delivering results and enjoys building high performing teams. Ideally you'll have:

• Project management experience within civil, infrastructure, utilities or construction sectors
• Strong commercial and financial management skills
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and communication abilities
• Experience managing subcontractors, contracts and project delivery programmes
• A passion for people leadership and team development
• A commitment to safety, quality and continuous improvement
• Experience within water, wastewater or broader utilities infrastructure will be highly regarded.

Benefits of working with Downer

At Downer, our purpose is to enable communities to thrive. As one of Aotearoa New Zealand's leading infrastructure providers, we offer rewarding careers, development opportunities and a culture where people feel valued and supported. Our benefits focus on four key areas:

We invest in your growth through ongoing development opportunities, leadership pathways and access to industry leading expertise.

The health, safety and wellbeing of our people is our top priority. You'll have access to a range of wellbeing initiatives and support services for you and your whāna.

Community

We're proud of our inclusive culture and employee led networks that foster connection, belonging and support across the business.

Individuality

We recognise and celebrate what makes you unique and offer a range of employee discounts and benefits through Perks@Downer.

Why Tasman?

Imagine finishing after work or being minutes away from some of New Zealand's best beaches, mountain biking trails, wineries, national parks and outdoor adventures. Tasman offers an incredible lifestyle alongside challenging and meaningful career opportunities. Whether you're exploring Abel Tasman National Park, hitting the trails, enjoying the local food and wine scene, or spending time on the water, you'll enjoy an enviable work life balance in one of New Zealand's most sought after regions.

Our Organisation

Downer's Energy & Utilities business unit is an integrated trans Tasman team providing essential services that connect communities to critical infrastructure. We design, build, operate and maintain today's important water, electricity, telecommunications, industrial and power generation assets and networks. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Downer is an inclusive employer committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and empowered to succeed. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and cultures.

We are committed to a safe working environment for everyone. Successful applicants will be required to complete pre employment screening, including a medical, drug and alcohol test and Ministry of Justice check.