Site Engineer (Utilities/ Accommodation) - Te Pae o Tararua (Ō2NL)

McConnell Dowell; Wellington; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

McConnell Dowell – Creative Construction is seeking a Site Engineer for the Ō2NL project to support utilities and accommodation works. You’ll coordinate with project teams, manage site activities, and help deliver relocations, service adjustments, and safe execution across the construction programme.

You’ll work with the Utilities/Accommodation Lead, uphold safety standards, track progress, and coordinate with subcontractors and external agencies to ensure timely delivery and quality outcomes.

Qualifications

• Qualification in Engineering, Property, or a related discipline.
• Civil infrastructure experience.
• Understanding NZ property regulations.
• Experience mobilising and demolishing homes and utilities (power, gas, water etc.).

Responsibilities

• Resolve technical and logistical issues in collaboration with internal teams and external providers.
• Support the Utilities / Accommodation Lead in tracking progress and managing risks.
• Contribute to planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and risk management.
• Assist in integrating utility works into the broader construction programme.
• Prepare scopes of work and assist with procurement and subcontractor coordination.
• Engage with subcontractors, suppliers, alliance partners, local councils, iwi, and community stakeholders.
• Implement quality control systems and assist in managing non-conformance reports.
• Lead toolbox talks and contribute to risk assessment workshops.

Skills

Civil infrastructure experience

Subcontractor management

Coordination with external agencies

Safety awareness

Planning and risk management

Education

Engineering degree

Property-related qualification

Job description

About the Project

The Te Pae o Tararua (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.

This is a fixed-term position until September 2027.

About the Role:

The Site Engineer – Utilities / Accommodation supports the day-to-day delivery of property and utility works across the Ō2NL South Alliance.

This includes assisting with relocations, demolitions, service adjustments, and site coordination. The role works closely with the Utilities/Accommodation Lead, Project Engineer and construction teams to ensure safe, timely, and compliant execution of works.

Key Responsibilities

• Resolve technical and logistical issues in collaboration with internal teams and external providers.
• Support the Utilities / Accommodation Lead in tracking progress and managing risks.
• Contribute to planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and risk management.
• Assist in integrating utility works into the broader construction programme.
• Prepare scopes of work and assist with procurement and subcontractor coordination.
• Engage with subcontractors, suppliers, alliance partners, local councils, iwi, and community stakeholders.
• Implement quality control systems and assist in managing non-conformance reports.
• Lead toolbox talks and contribute to risk assessment workshops.

About You

• Qualification in Engineering, Property, or a related discipline.
• Must have civil infrastructure experience
• Understanding of NZ property regulations and market practices.
• Experience in infrastructure delivery, ideally with property and utility components.
• Experience mobilising and demolishing homes and utilities (power, gas, water etc.).
• Proven ability to manage subcontractors and coordinate with external agencies.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

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.

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.This role is being sourced through McConnell Dowell directly. We are not accepting applications via external recruitment agencies.

*Benefits listed are for those eligible.