Job Description
Full job description
Drive the delivery of all phases of major critical three water infrastructure projects
Lead region‑shaping, critical three water infrastructure projects
Own the delivery strategy of performance of major programmes
Lead portfolio of complex, high‑value, strategically vital work.
This is a full-time position of 40 hours per week
The remuneration range for this role is $126,322 to $178,337 (including KiwiSaver), depending on skills and experience.
The opportunity
Over the coming years, Wellington Water will significantly expand its water services delivery programme, accelerate investment and lift delivery performance across the region. As Project Director, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and growing this programme — providing leadership, structure, and direction as we deliver an ambitious pipeline of critical infrastructure.
The Project Director is responsible for leading a team of project managers to deliver multiple precedent-setting projects simultaneously across the region. You will lead the delivery of the Wellington region's most significant, complex and high-value water infrastructure projects. The successful delivery of critical projects that will enable the Wellington region to meet its three waters requirements.
The Project Director will apply best-practice processes to the management, planning, design, and implementation of water projects. You will have the autonomy to use your experience to influence and shape investment decisions, deliver strategies, and project governance.
By focusing on developing a positive, high-performance team culture, you will work collaboratively within Wellington Water and with our supply chains to achieve strategic outcomes. By partnering with internal stakeholders, you will deliver successful project outcomes by steering investment casing and maintaining accountability across the full delivery lifecycle.
To be successful in this role, you will be skilled in:
Taking responsibility for the direction, management and financial outcome of the critical projects and programmes
Leading the development and delivery within scope, time, and budget parameters
Championing safety in all aspects of design and build
Leading communication and engagement with stakeholders, customers, and the community
Providing leadership and guidance on contracts and procurement, achieving demonstrable value across the supply chain
Overseeing quality management programmes to achieve contract compliance and a quality project
Overseeing the performance of consultant contractors, and wider supply chain
Contributing to continuous improvement efforts in Project and Programme Management by identifying process gaps
Interact with senior management at Wellington Water and governance structures as required.
The ideal candidate will bring proven experience leading major, complex projects in the construction or infrastructure environment, with a track record spanning the full delivery lifecycle - from early planning, business casing, consenting, and design, through procurement, delivery, commissioning, and handover.
You will hold a relevant tertiary qualification, and a qualification in project management will be an advantage.
Just as important, you understand how to bring diverse groups together to deliver high-quality outcomes. You’re a confident communicator, an influential leader, and someone who can build strong relationships across consultants, contractors, and internal stakeholders to keep large programmes moving in the right direction.
Benefits
At Wellington Water, our purpose extends beyond delivering great water services for the region; we foster a thriving community, support a diverse workforce, and offer supportive development opportunities. We genuinely care about your safety and well-being.
Our benefits include:
Flexible working arrangements, including up to 2 days working from home
Comprehensive wellbeing programme, including one paid wellbeing day annually
Formal and informal professional development opportunities
5 weeks of annual leave accrual will be available following 2 years of continual service
For a full list of our employee benefits, click Here
About us
Wellington Water is the professional water services provider across Greater Wellington and South Wairarapa. Our job is to provide safe and healthy drinking water, collect and treat wastewater, and ensure the stormwater network is well managed. We’re a multi-council-owned entity, tasked to manage the infrastructure and deliver water services to our communities.
The value of water (a precious taonga) sits at our organisational heart. Our people are passionate about providing waters services for our communities and environment which is reflective in our values; Tangata Tiaki, Whānau and Mana.
Applications close: 20th February 2026
How to apply
To view a copy of the position description: Click Here
To apply for the role, click on the ”apply” button or visit the Wellington Water Careers site, please note if you are a Wellington Water employee please apply using your work email.
For further information, email: [email protected]
Applicants will be required to undergo drug and ******* testing prior to commencing employment with Wellington Water. You must also be legally entitled to work long-term in New Zealand or eligible to obtain a working visa.
Drive the delivery of all phases of major critical three water infrastructure projects
Lead region‑shaping, critical three water infrastructure projects
Own the delivery strategy of performance of major programmes
Lead portfolio of complex, high‑value, strategically vital work.
This is a full-time position of 40 hours per week
The remuneration range for this role is $126,322 to $178,337 (including KiwiSaver), depending on skills and experience.
The opportunity
Over the coming years, Wellington Water will significantly expand its water services delivery programme, accelerate investment and lift delivery performance across the region. As Project Director, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and growing this programme — providing leadership, structure, and direction as we deliver an ambitious pipeline of critical infrastructure.
The Project Director is responsible for leading a team of project managers to deliver multiple precedent-setting projects simultaneously across the region. You will lead the delivery of the Wellington region's most significant, complex and high-value water infrastructure projects. The successful delivery of critical projects that will enable the Wellington region to meet its three waters requirements.
The Project Director will apply best-practice processes to the management, planning, design, and implementation of water projects. You will have the autonomy to use your experience to influence and shape investment decisions, deliver strategies, and project governance.
By focusing on developing a positive, high-performance team culture, you will work collaboratively within Wellington Water and with our supply chains to achieve strategic outcomes. By partnering with internal stakeholders, you will deliver successful project outcomes by steering investment casing and maintaining accountability across the full delivery lifecycle.
To be successful in this role, you will be skilled in:
Taking responsibility for the direction, management and financial outcome of the critical projects and programmes
Leading the development and delivery within scope, time, and budget parameters
Championing safety in all aspects of design and build
Leading communication and engagement with stakeholders, customers, and the community
Providing leadership and guidance on contracts and procurement, achieving demonstrable value across the supply chain
Overseeing quality management programmes to achieve contract compliance and a quality project
Overseeing the performance of consultant contractors, and wider supply chain
Contributing to continuous improvement efforts in Project and Programme Management by identifying process gaps
Interact with senior management at Wellington Water and governance structures as required.
The ideal candidate will bring proven experience leading major, complex projects in the construction or infrastructure environment, with a track record spanning the full delivery lifecycle - from early planning, business casing, consenting, and design, through procurement, delivery, commissioning, and handover.
You will hold a relevant tertiary qualification, and a qualification in project management will be an advantage.
Just as important, you understand how to bring diverse groups together to deliver high-quality outcomes. You’re a confident communicator, an influential leader, and someone who can build strong relationships across consultants, contractors, and internal stakeholders to keep large programmes moving in the right direction.
Benefits
At Wellington Water, our purpose extends beyond delivering great water services for the region; we foster a thriving community, support a diverse workforce, and offer supportive development opportunities. We genuinely care about your safety and well-being.
Our benefits include:
Flexible working arrangements, including up to 2 days working from home
Comprehensive wellbeing programme, including one paid wellbeing day annually
Formal and informal professional development opportunities
5 weeks of annual leave accrual will be available following 2 years of continual service
For a full list of our employee benefits, click Here
About us
Wellington Water is the professional water services provider across Greater Wellington and South Wairarapa. Our job is to provide safe and healthy drinking water, collect and treat wastewater, and ensure the stormwater network is well managed. We’re a multi-council-owned entity, tasked to manage the infrastructure and deliver water services to our communities.
The value of water (a precious taonga) sits at our organisational heart. Our people are passionate about providing waters services for our communities and environment which is reflective in our values; Tangata Tiaki, Whānau and Mana.
Applications close: 20th February 2026
How to apply
To view a copy of the position description: Click Here
To apply for the role, click on the ”apply” button or visit the Wellington Water Careers site, please note if you are a Wellington Water employee please apply using your work email.
For further information, email: [email protected]
Applicants will be required to undergo drug and ******* testing prior to commencing employment with Wellington Water. You must also be legally entitled to work long-term in New Zealand or eligible to obtain a working visa.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Project Director position is now open for candidates interested in the Construction, Repair & Maintenance Services sector. This role in Lower Hutt offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Construction, Repair & Maintenance Services is a plus.
