Principal Design Engineer Structures

Te kōwhiringa The Opportunity

Were looking for a highly experienced and Chartered Principal Design Engineer to provide technical leadership across a range of complex structural and temporary works projects.

In this senior role youll work closely with our National Lead project teams clients and subcontractors to ensure practical buildable and cost-effective design outcomes that enhance site productivity and safety.

Youll be part of Downers Infrastructure Delivery Business Unit collaborating nationally with technical specialists and mentoring emerging engineers - strengthening Downers position as a leader in innovative and efficient structural design.

Ngā kawenga What youll be doing

In this role you will:

• Lead and review designs for bridges retaining walls low-rise buildings and temporary works (e.g. propping scaffolding crane platforms and formwork)
• Provide expert technical input during design tendering and delivery phases to ensure constructability safety and cost efficiency
• Identify and implement innovation opportunities in materials technology and construction methods
• Manage internal and external design teams ensuring design integrity quality and compliance with project specifications and standards
• Lead the development of temporary works designs on complex build-only projects
• Support site teams through construction monitoring inspection test plans and quality assurance
• Mentor and coach junior engineers graduates and cadets to build technical capability across the business
• Represent Downer within the wider industry contributing to forums technical groups and thought leadership initiatives

Ngā pūkenga matua About You

Youre a respected structural engineer who brings both deep technical knowledge and a practical understanding of construction. Youll bring:

• A BE (Civil) or equivalent tertiary qualification in engineering
• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status and membership with Engineers New Zealand (MEngNZ or FEngNZ)
• 10 years experience in structural engineering ideally across a variety of civil infrastructure projects
• Proven expertise in permanent and temporary works design and construction methodology
• Strong problem-solving skills sound judgement and an innovative mindset
• Demonstrated leadership in mentoring collaboration and stakeholder management
• Excellent communication and report writing skills
• A full Class 1 drivers licence

Ko te take ka parekareka e koe ki te mahi ki kōnei Why youll love working with us

At Downer were more than just a construction company - were shaping New Zealands infrastructure for future generations. Youll join a team that values technical excellence collaboration and innovation.

We offer:

• Opportunities to work on complex nationally significant projects
• Career progression professional development and mentoring programmes
• Access to Marram Health Care benefits and discounted holiday homes
• A culture that champions safety sustainability and excellence

Me pēhea ki te tono How to Apply

If youre ready to lead influence and deliver design excellence across Aotearoa wed love to hear from you. Click apply below and submit your cover letter and CV.

The Downer Recruitment Team will be on a holiday break from 24 December 2025 and will return on 12 January 2026. During this period we will not be contactable and responses to applications or enquiries will resume after we return. We look forward to connecting with you in the new year.