Operational Asset Lead

Location: Tauranga
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

• Lead regional asset management and optimise state highway performance.

• Shape and deliver strategic and operational maintenance programmes.

• Mentor and develop a high-performing asset management team.

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We're looking for an Operational Asset Lead to provide regional leadership for asset management teams and drive the development and implementation of strategic and operational maintenance and renewal programmes for all assets within the state highway corridor. In this role, you'll ensure optimal lifecycle management, asset performance, and value for money across the transport network.

• Develop and implement 3-year and Annual Forward Works Programmes aligned with national and lifecycle plans.

• Lead and mentor the area asset engineering team to build capability and consistency.

• Manage budgets, forecasting, and allocation to deliver value for money.

• Monitor and report on performance expectations and compliance.

• Direct and review renewal investigations, test plans, and designs.

• Develop and refine strategic asset programmes to secure funding and support long-term network needs.

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders for coordinated programme delivery.

• Review and endorse maintenance and renewal programmes, change requests, and emergency works applications.

• Prepare emergency response and recovery applications and participate in incident management.

• Provide expert maintenance in design advice and approve hand back conditions for capital projects.

You will find out more about the role here: Position Description

Ko koe tēnei  | About you

• Demonstrated experience in asset management principles, methodologies, and systems within a transport or infrastructure environment.

• Proven leadership capability with success in managing and mentoring teams.

• Strong experience in reviewing and validating pavement and surfacing designs to NZTA standards.

• Ability to develop and implement strategic asset management plans balancing technical, financial, and customer outcomes.

• Comprehensive understanding of road asset deterioration, treatment options, and lifecycle cost analysis.

• Substantial knowledge of project and contract management in maintenance and renewal contexts.

• Strong analytical skills to interpret complex data for decision-making.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Tertiary qualification in Civil Engineering, Asset Management, or related field, or equivalent relevant experience.

• Willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori, promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori, and appreciate Te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies in the public service.

Mō mātou | About Us

Te Toki – Transport Services
We deliver great outcomes now and make the future a better place. As kaitiaki of the transport system, we work with partners, for people, for our land, and for the future. Our group designs and delivers integrated land transport network improvements, operates the land transport network for moving people and freight, and maintains land transport corridors as a lifeline service.

The Maintenance and Operations team keeps the transport system operational, safe, and optimised to meet the needs of all New Zealanders.

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

At NZTA Waka Kotahi, you'll join a team that values wellbeing, collaboration, and courage. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, flexible working arrangements (including remote/hybrid options, role dependent), 5 weeks annual leave, and an Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance scheme for all permanent employees.

We are seeking to appoint at a salary between 131, ,000 of band commensurate to skills and experience.

Along with our other benefits, you'll be part of an organisation that is committed to making a difference for New Zealanders.

Ready to take the next step in your career? We'd love to hear from you. Apply today and join our team who is going places.

Me pēhea te tuku tono |How to apply:

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

Please note we are on our Christmas break from 23 December 2025 to 12 January 2026. We will respond to your queries as soon as we are back – wishing you a wonderful festive season

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

For further information, email:

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

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.