Principal Dams Engineer

Build a Life in New Zealand. Lead Major Dams Projects. Shape an Industry. At Tonkin + Taylor, our purpose is simple: together, we create and sustain a better world. As New Zealand's leading employee‑owned engineering and environmental consultancy, we have been at the forefront of dam engineering for more than 60 years. We deliver water supply, hydropower, flood management, irrigation, and energy storage projects across New Zealand, Australia, the Pacific, and internationally. Recognised for technical excellence and innovation, our dams team plays a leading role in advancing the profession through contributions to NZSOLD and ICOLD, helping shape dam safety policy, guidance, and engineering practice in New Zealand. About the Role & Life in New Zealand New Zealand offers a rare combination of career opportunity and quality of life — major infrastructure projects, short commutes, and easy access to mountains, beaches, and national parks. We are open to candidates from around the world and offer comprehensive relocation and visa support for the right person. We are seeking an experienced Principal Dams Engineer to join our growing dams practice in New Zealand to take a leading role in delivering technically challenging nationally and internationally significant projects. This is more than a technical leadership position. It is an opportunity to influence the future of dam engineering in New Zealand, develop your professional reputation, and become a recognised leader within a highly respected and collaborative industry. Responsibilities Lead the delivery of complex dam engineering projects across New Zealand and internationally. Provide specialist technical input into investigations, assessments, design, construction, upgrades, and dam safety management. Mentor and develop emerging engineers and technical specialists. Build and strengthen relationships with clients, regulators, and industry stakeholders. Contribute to industry development through thought leadership, technical publications, industry committees, and professional engagement. Help shape the future direction and growth of Tonkin + Taylor's dam’s practice. Qualifications 20+ years of dam engineering experience Bachelor of Engineering or equivalent qualification Chartered Professional Engineer status or equivalent international registration. Experience in formal dam safety management is an advantage. Required Skills Strong technical expertise across dam investigations, design, construction, upgrades, and dam safety management Experience leading multidisciplinary project teams. Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills A desire to mentor others and contribute to the advancement of the profession. Generous relocation package and visa sponsorship. Work on nationally significant and technically complex projects. Opportunity to become a recognised industry leader in New Zealand. Employee‑owned consultancy with a strong reputation for technical excellence. Supportive and collaborative culture that values autonomy, mastery, and purpose. Professional memberships and ongoing professional development. Internal technical training and mentoring programmes. Annual wellbeing allowance and wellbeing programme. Active social club and inclusive workplace culture. Equal Opportunity Statement At Tonkin + Taylor, our value "Everyone Matters" is at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to be an Immigration New Zealand Accredited Employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are welcomed, valued, and supported. #J-18808-Ljbffr