Principal Civil Engineer

Come grow with us.

Become part of AECOM's Aviation team - a welcoming, collaborative, and supportive environment where you're encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally. You'll work alongside passionate colleagues who value teamwork, innovation, and technical excellence, while being empowered to take ownership of your career journey. As part of a highly experienced group delivering complex and exciting projects across Australia, New Zealand and beyond, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to the design and delivery of major airside infrastructure. With AECOM's global reach and strong local presence, you'll gain exposure to a diverse range of technical challenges, collaborate with multidisciplinary experts, and help shape the future of aviation infrastructure across the region.

Everyone belongs at AECOM

We're committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging - because great ideas come from diverse perspectives. AECOM is proud to be a Fortune 500 Most Admired Company, a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, Work180 Equitable Workplace Awards 2025 Winner and an AWEI Bronze Tier LGBTQ+ Inclusive Employer.

Due to an internal transfer, we are seeking a Principal Civil (Aviation) Engineer to join our national aviation team. In this key role, you'll lead and deliver a wide range of airside design projects across airports throughout Aotearoa, working within a collaborative environment committed to technical excellence and innovation.

How you'll make a difference

• Lead and support design tasks for airfield infrastructure, including runways, taxiways, aprons, pavements and grading.

• Undertake and review airside geometric design and stand planning tasks.

• Prepare and review technical drawings, specifications and bid documents in compliance with local standards.

• Provide construction-phase support, including site visits, submittal reviews and RFI (Request for Information) responses.

• Interface with clients and stakeholders to support successful project delivery.

• Contribute to or lead project and design management activities, including scope, schedule, and budget tracking.

• Mentor junior engineers and support their technical and professional development.

The qualities that help you thrive

The following qualifications and experience are highly desired, but if you don't tick all the boxes you could still be a perfect fit for this role. Please apply, all applications will be considered.

• Over 10 years' experience in the civil aviation sector, delivering high-profile and complex projects; design management and project management experience is an advantage

• Tertiary qualification in Civil Engineering or a related field; postgraduate qualifications highly desirable

• Strong technical skills in 3D geometric design, airside planning, aircraft tracking (AviPlan), stand planning and developing design drawings, specifications and reports

• Detailed knowledge of, and experience applying, relevant standards and guidance:

  • ICAO Annex 14 and related ICAO planning/design guidelines

  • NZ CAA Advisory Circular Part 139 (or equivalent ICAO member states guidance)

  • Relevant US FAA Advisory Circulars

• Experience with design and modelling software: OpenRoads, AutoCAD, Navisworks, Infraworks, ProjectWise, with past MX or Inroads experience highly beneficial

• Excellent communication and client-focused skills, with the ability to build and maintain trusted relationships at all levels

• Demonstrated experience in site-based construction monitoring

• Surveying experience and familiarity with GIS applications is advantageous

Why you'll love working with us

• Flexible work arrangements, including alternative start/finish times, part-time, job-sharing and hybrid work options
• Purchase up to 6 weeks additional annual leave per year
• Medical, life and income protection cover provided
• Flex public holidays – swap Easter or other holidays for ones that suit you better

Ready to push the limits of what's possible?

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and/or neurodiverse conditions. If you require any adjustments during the hiring process, please let us know.

Applications are reviewed as they come in, and the role may close earlier than expected, so if this opportunity sounds like you, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

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About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at  

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.