Technical Director - River Engineering

ICE Recruit; New Zealand; Hybrid; NZD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A consultancy firm in New Zealand is seeking an experienced River Engineering Consultant to lead impactful projects protecting waterway ecosystems. The role requires over 15 years in river engineering, exceptional client engagement skills, and the flexibility for travel. Benefits include health insurance, flexible working arrangements, and continuous professional growth opportunities.

Benefits

Health insurance

Flexible working arrangements

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in river engineering and flood modelling.
• CPEng status is a plus.
• Strong business development capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop river engineering consultancy services.
• Drive business development by maintaining client relationships.
• Manage hydraulic and flood modelling studies for river systems.

Skills

River engineering expertise

Flood modelling

Client engagement

Technical report writing

Project management

Problem-solving

Education

Postgraduate qualification in relevant field

Job description

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop river engineering and flood modelling consultancy services.
• Drive business development by maintaining client relationships, securing new opportunities, and representing PDP at industry conferences.
• Oversee and review river engineering tasks, including rock rip-rap revetment design, stream channel design, and complex spatial data analysis (e.g., cross-section surveys, LiDAR).
• Manage and review hydraulic and flood modelling studies for river systems and catchments.
• Lead technical projects, coordinating staff and subcontractors, liaising with clients and regulators, and managing budgets.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports and expert evidence for hearings.
• Provide end-to-end project solutions—from initial discussions to completion.

Qualifications

• A postgraduate qualification in Environmental, Civil, or Geotechnical Engineering, Geography, or Natural Resource Management. (NZ) CPEng status is a plus.
• 15+ years of experience in river engineering, flood modelling, and/or river geomorphology.
• A recognised reputation in the river sector, with a drive to further develop expertise.
• Strong business development skills, including client engagement and project sourcing.
• Exceptional technical report writing and communication skills.
• A solutions-driven mindset with the ability to navigate complex environmental challenges.
• The flexibility to travel within NZ and work in remote locations when required.

Why join PDP?

• Make an Impact – Work on meaningful projects that protect and restore New Zealand’s waterways.
• Work-Life Balance – Enjoy flexible/hybrid working arrangements.
• Professional Growth – Access ongoing training, career development, and paid membership fees.
• Competitive Benefits – Receive health insurance, income protection, parental leave salary top-ups, and the option to buy extra leave.
• Great Culture – Be part of a diverse, inclusive, and employee-owned company with nearly 40 years of experience in NZ, Australia, and the Pacific Islands.