The Company
RobLawMax Recruitment is working in partnership with Waikato Regional Council to appoint a Chief Engineer within their Integrated Catchment Management (ICM) Directorate.
This is an opportunity to join a progressive organisation with a commitment to environmental sustainability, partnership with tangata whenua, and technical excellence in infrastructure management. The Council plays a pivotal role in maintaining over $1.1 billion of regional flood protection and land drainage assets, supporting a healthy environment, strong economy, and vibrant communities.
The Position
As the Chief Engineer – Integrated Catchment Management, you will provide multi-disciplinary engineering leadership across infrastructure planning, design, delivery, and maintenance across established flood protection and land drainage schemems. You will play a central role in shaping engineering standards, policies, and innovation across Waikato Regional Council’s ICM Directorate, contributing to long-term outcomes that balance environmental, community, and infrastructure priorities.
This role requires an individual with deep technical credibility, excellent communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex political, environmental, and stakeholder contexts. You’ll engage with councillors, iwi partners, and community groups while influencing engineering decision-making at a strategic level.
Skills and Experience Required
We are seeking an experienced engineering professional who demonstrates:
- A tertiary qualification in civil, environmental, or natural resources engineering (postgraduate preferred)
- Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) or equivalent professional registration
- Depth of experience built up over approximately 15+ years operating in senior technical or leadership roles
- Proven project and contract management experience (NZS3910, NZS3912 advantageous)
- Sound understanding of infrastructure management within public or regulated environments
- Strong relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills
- Experience working in partnership with tangata whenua and understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles
What’s in it for You
- Opportunity to influence regional infrastructure strategy and engineering excellence
- Collaborative, professional team culture focused on sustainable outcomes
- Professional development and ongoing learning opportunities
- Flexible working options and wellbeing support
- Competitive remuneration in line with experience and contribution ($160-180k)
How to Apply
Submit your CV and cover letter outlining your engineering leadership experience and why you’re the ideal candidate for this pivotal regional role. Click apply or send your application to lewisf@roblawmax.co.nz quoting reference LF.
To speak with the consultant coordinating the recruitment of this position, call Lewis Fegen on 021 0203 5958 for a confidential conversation.
This position vacancy is being handled exclusively by RobLawMax Recruitment. Any enquiries or applications made direct to WRC by applicants or other recruiters will be directed to RobLawMax.