Napier City Council is looking for a Principal Design Engineer to lead design work across our water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure projects. In this role, you’ll provide senior technical guidance, ensure designs meet regulatory and sustainability standards, and oversee project delivery from concept to construction. You’ll also provide peer review and sign-off for complex or high-risk projects, making sure our designs are safe, practical, and aligned with best practice. 

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Lead the design and delivery of diverse three waters infrastructure projects across Napier.

• Provide senior technical oversight, peer review, and assurance for complex or high-risk designs.

• Support construction and project delivery with Engineer to Contract services, ensuring designs are implemented safely and effectively.

• Mentor and guide team members, sharing expertise and fostering a culture of excellence.

• Contribute to continuous improvement of design processes, standards, and governance across the Compliance and Standards Team.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• Chartered Professional Engineer (or working towards) with a tertiary qualification in Civil Engineering.

• 8+ years’ experience in water, wastewater, or stormwater design, preferably in local government, consulting, or similar sectors.

• Proven experience in technical leadership, including peer review, sign-off of complex designs, and provision of independent assurance.

• Strong knowledge of NZ design standards, regulations, and compliance requirements, with experience delivering projects under NZS 3910 contracts.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, stakeholders, and contractors.

Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer

• 5 weeks annual leave after 2 years service

• Discounted Health Insurance Work Scheme + Eye Test Subsidy

• Retailer Discounts + Study assistance

• Employee Assistance Program (OCP)

• Quarterly values awards + Birthday vouchers + Social club

• Free flu vaccinations (annual)

• Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka

• Te Reo Māori language classes

This is a permanent, full time opportunity working 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday. You will be based in Napier’s CBD.

The annual salary package for this role is between $112,900-$132,800 (including KiwiSaver), with the final offer depending on your skills and experience.

Applications for this role close on 20 February 2026, however due to the highly competitive employment market we will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person. Please do not delay in making your application.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!

Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.

Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including criminal background checks, with some roles requiring health screening & drug testing). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.

Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description

Job Description – Principal Design Engineer