Principal Advisor Geospatial

• Shape the future of transport in Aotearoa through geospatial leadership.
• Influence national transport strategy and policy with your geospatial expertise.
• Collaborate with senior leaders, government agencies, and key industry partners.
• Lead innovation, mentor professionals, and drive continuous improvement in a values-driven environment.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We're looking for a strategic thinker with deep expertise in geospatial intelligence to join our System Leadership group. As Principal Advisor Geospatial, you'll provide technical and analytical thought leadership to drive better transport outcomes.

The Principal Advisor Geospatial will collaborate across all NZTA to help shape and deliver key projects and programmes for better transport sector outcomes by providing fit for purpose geospatial solutions and services to both internal and external users.

In this role you will:

• Lead and champion geospatial solutions and services for internal and external users.
• Provide consultancy and support to the Geospatial Services Team and wider business.
• Advise on geospatial intelligence, contribute to business cases, and represent NZTA on cross-government committees.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders, partner agencies, and vendors.
• Coach and mentor geospatial professionals.
• Drive continuous improvement and innovation in geospatial technologies.

To view a copy of the position description click here.

Ko koe tēnei | About you

As our ideal candidate, you bring a blend of strategic vision, technical expertise, and collaborative spirit to drive geospatial innovation and deliver impactful outcomes along with:

• Senior-level experience in strategic geospatial intelligence, operational utilisation, and modelling.
• Advanced relationship management, stakeholder engagement, and influencing skills.
• Proven experience in project delivery, business planning, and financial management.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Experience working in government or large organisations.
• Knowledge of ArcGIS Enterprise and ArcGIS Online (desirable).
• Understanding of Data Analytics and Data Science (desirable).
• Tertiary qualification in GIS, Geography, IT, or similar.

Mō mātou |About Us

System Leadership has a tight focus on setting direction and priorities for NZTA through strategy, policy, planning, evidence and insights. We are not in the business of delivery; we provide guidance so other business groups responsible for delivery can align their activity to this direction. We also have a tight focus on understanding and evaluating the impact of this delivery to hold NZTA account and inform adjustments to its direction.

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return

At NZTA, we're proud of our inclusive and purpose-driven culture. We offer:

• A competitive salary and benefits package
• Flexible working arrangements, including remote/hybrid options (role dependent)
• Five weeks annual leave
• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for all permanent employees

Join a team that's passionate about shaping a safer, more connected transport system for all New Zealanders.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:

Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga | Applications close:6th January 2026

Please note we are on our Christmas break from 23 December 2025 to 5 January 2026. We will respond to your queries as soon as we are back - wishing you a wonderful festive season

For further information, email:

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

NZTA| Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.