Technical Director - Geotechnical

GHD; Hamilton; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering firm in Hamilton, New Zealand, is seeking a Technical Director with a strong background in geotechnics and leadership skills. The role involves managing projects, developing client relationships, and guiding junior engineers. Candidates should have 15-30 years' experience in engineering geology practice. The firm offers competitive remuneration, professional development, and flexible working arrangements in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Insurances paid for by GHD

Up to 20 days extra leave

Daily interaction with high performing teams

Professional development and ongoing training

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• 15-30 years’ experience in engineering geology and geotechnical design.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of New Zealand geological and geotechnical conditions.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for project planning and coordination.
• Manage project teams to meet client needs and expectations.
• Develop business relationships to enhance project outcomes.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Technical skills in geology

Problem solving

Teamwork

Education

BE or similar in a geotechnical discipline

Masters qualification in geotechnical discipline

Job description

Job Description

There’s no pledge more important than the one we make to look after our environment, and we’re committed to helping you do exactly that.

Join us as we strive for a sustainable future for our communities and the world we live in. Become part of our global network of skilled engineers, scientists, auditors, planners and environmental specialists, all working together to leave this world better than we found it.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a highly experienced Technical Director to join our team in Auckland.

The role:

• Provide leadership, planning, and coordination of resources for each job including inputs with other offices, and sub consultants
• Responsible for understanding the client’s needs and managing the project and the project team to achieve these
• Develop reputable business relationships with existing and potential clients to ensure required project outcomes are met and client satisfaction is maintained at a high standard
• Develop new and repeat business within the region and wider NZ as required – including preparation of proposals and bids for projects
• Manage all jobs to deliver them on time, within budget and to the satisfaction of the client
• Provide guidance to junior design engineers on projects and be able to train and mentor them

About you:

• BE or similar in a geotechnical discipline. Preferably Chartered or near chartered with Masters qualification in geotechnical discipline.
• Tertiary qualified with 15-30 years’ experience in engineering geology practice, geotechnical design, and related projects
• Good communication skills (both verbal and written) and have demonstrated expertise in preparing reports and delivering presentations
• Sound technical skills enabling geological and geotechnical constraints to be understood and mitigated within projects
• Knowledge and understanding of local and regional authority standards and guidelines
• Knowledge of geological and geotechnical conditions in New Zealand
• Proven ability to deliver geotechnical projects on time and to budget
• Ability to nurture and develop teamwork within the group
• Proven leadership qualities
• Self-motivated and energetic
• Flexible in your approach to challenges
• Project/Client problem solving focus

Click ‘Apply’ to submit your CV or reach out to Zen Chua ([e-mail]) for more information.

What's in it for you:

• Insurances paid for by GHD (life, trauma and income protection
• Up to 20 days extra leave with our holiday buy-back scheme
• Daily interaction with high performing teams
• Professional development and ongoing training
• Competitive remuneration
• Flexible working arrangements for work-life balance
• Opportunities to learn from our industry experts and technical gurus across APAC.
• A highly supportive and collaborative team environment
• We will set you up for success with the latest hardware, tools and tech

Office Shutdown Period

Please be aware that our office will be closed from Thursday 25 December 2025 to Friday, 9th January 2026. We will reopen on Monday, 12th January 2026. During this period, there will be delays in processing applications and responding to enquiries. We appreciate your understanding and patience.

We respectfully ask that no agency resumes be presented at this stage.

About GHD

Ki GHD, ka ākina te kaimahi e mātou kia tutuki ōna ake moemoeā. Nā te mea, ko te kaha o te tangata te tuarā o te pakihi. Nā reira, he hiahia nō mātou ki te whiwhi kaimahi nō ngā ahurea tuakiri maha, nō whenua rerekē, tane mai, wahine mai.

At GHD we encourage individual achievement and recognize the strength of a diverse workforce. GHD is committed to providing Equal Employment Opportunities and invites applications from people of all nationalities, genders, and cultural backgrounds.

GHD is a global professional services company that leads through engineering, architecture, and construction expertise. We are an employee-owned company with over 11,000 diverse and skilled individuals, across more than 200 offices spanning five continents.

Our Pledge to You

At GHD, we don’t just believe in the power of commitment, we live and breathe it every day. That’s why we pledge to empower our people to make a positive impact. Combining our deep technical expertise with the capabilities of our clients and partners, we respond to some of the most complex challenges facing our planet today. See where your commitment could take you. That’s the #PowerOfCommitment.