Contract Manager

Lead Three‑Waters Contract Performance to Deliver Safe, Reliable Services for our communities

Southland District Council is responsible for 11% of New Zealand's land area, including the iconic Fiordland and Rakiura/Stewart Island National Parks, and more than 30 unique communities. We deliver essential services that directly support the social, cultural, economic and environmental wellbeing of our communities

The local government landscape is changing rapidly, and we're committed to innovation, strong partnerships and delivering excellent community outcomes. To support this work, we're seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to join our dedicated Water and Waste team.

About the Role

As our Contracts Manager Water and Waste, you will take the lead in managing the operations and maintenance contract that keeps our three waters services running safely, reliably and efficiently. This is a role with real impact ensuring our communities receive the level of service they depend on every day.

You will:

• Oversee the day‑to‑day operations and maintenance of our water supply, wastewater and stormwater networks.
• Monitor contractor performance, KPIs and service delivery, ensuring all activities meet legislative, technical and safety requirements.
• Provide SQE (Safety, Quality and Environmental) oversight including auditing, performance monitoring and reporting.
• Act as the Engineer's Representative under NZS 3910/3915 for designated contracts.
• Work closely with contractors, consultants, regulators, asset managers and our communities to ensure service levels are achieved.
• Monitor network performance through SCADA, ensuring critical alarms are responded to appropriately.
• Help shape long‑term and annual programs and contribute to Activity Management Plans.
• Play an integral role in strengthening a high‑performing, solution‑focused Water and Waste team.

You won't be doing this work alone. You'll join a tight‑knit team of passionate, skilled water and waste professionals who genuinely enjoy working together and take pride in the services they deliver.

Collaboration isn't just a value here, it's how we operate every day. We support each other, share knowledge, step in when needed and work with a shared commitment to doing the right thing for our communities. If you thrive in a team environment where people care about their work, their communities and each other, you'll feel right at home.

About You

You will bring:

• Solid experience in contract management, ideally in water, wastewater, stormwater or civil infrastructure.
• Strong technical understanding of three‑waters operations, reticulation and treatment.
• Experience with NZS 3910/3915 contracts.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• A strong focus on safety, quality and operational excellence.
• The ability to make sound decisions, solve problems and perform under pressure.
• A relevant engineering qualification (BE, BEngTech, NZCE/NZDE) or equivalent experience.

You'll also embody our values - Working Together, Creating Opportunities, Taking Ownership, and Being Proud to Belong.

What's in it for you?

Southland District Council recognises staff are our most valuable asset. We believe in supporting them in their training and development, we have competitive remuneration packages which are benchmarked against market rates and an environment which supports personal growth.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If this sounds like your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.  Download a position description and apply online.

Applications close 5pm, 23 February 2026 -We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert, so don't delay.

You can find more information on working at Southland District Council check out our websitehttps://vacancies.southlanddc.govt.nz/