Strategic Manager Water and Waste

2 weeks ago

Invercargill Central, New Zealand Southland District Council Full time

About
Southland District Council

Covering 11% of New Zealand's total land area, including the iconic Fiordland
National Park and Stewart Island, Southland District Council manages the
largest land area of any district council in the country. Our work spans the
stewardship of vital infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water supply,
cemeteries, and parks, while also supporting the social, economic, cultural,
and environmental wellbeing of our communities.

Our team is
diverse and geographically spread across Invercargill and seven area offices in
Riverton, Otautau, Te Anau, Winton, Oban, Lumsden, and Wyndham. We offer a
rewarding career in local government, excellent working conditions, and a
lifestyle that's ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

About the
Role

Are you a strategic infrastructure leader ready for a new challenge? Southland
District Council is seeking a visionary professional to lead our Water and
Waste team. This is a high-impact role overseeing the delivery of safe,
reliable, and future-ready services across water, wastewater, stormwater, and
solid waste.

You'll
manage:

  • 12 water schemes serving 8,425 connections
  • 7 rural water schemes
  • 20 wastewater schemes serving 7,771 connections
  • A vast stormwater network across 30,000 square kilometres

With a
projected $256 million investment over the next decade, this is a rare
opportunity to shape the future of infrastructure in one of New Zealand's most
unique regions.

Key
Responsibilities

  • Lead the implementation of the Local Water Done Well
    programme
  • Deliver major renewals and treatment upgrades
  • Inspire and guide a high-performing team within the wider
    Infrastructure and Capital Delivery group
  • Ensure compliance with resource consents and regulatory
    standards
  • Drive strategic planning, asset and risk management, and
    capital works delivery
  • Champion innovation and value for ratepayers
  • Manage contracts and stakeholder relationships across all
    service areas

About You

You'll
bring:

  • A Bachelor of Engineering and Chartered Professional Engineer
    status (public health engineering specialisation a plus)
  • Proven leadership in water, wastewater, stormwater, and asset
    management
  • Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
  • Experience managing budgets, contracts, and performance in
    complex environments

Why
Southland? This is
more than a job it's a lifestyle. Relocate to a region known for its natural
beauty, community spirit, and outdoor adventure. At Southland District Council,
you'll be part of a team that genuinely cares about making a difference. Enjoy
a collaborative culture, professional development, and the satisfaction of
leading work that protects and enhances our environment.

Applications
close Tuesday 18th November 2025

We will review applications as they are received and may progress the
recruitment process before the closing date.

For more
information on working at Southland District Council,

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