Posted 03 August, 2026
Project Manager - HVDC
Transpower New Zealand Limited (TPNZ)
Wellington, WGN, NZ
Full Time
Reference: 58dbc31924c42c3a
Job Description
Bring your experience toNew Zealand’s nationally significant HVDC upgrade Be part of a once-in-a-generation, 5+ year programme poweringNZ’sfuture Wellington-based roleworkingacross Transpower andwithkey delivery partners Transpower's purpose is to empower the energy future for New Zealand — a future that delivers a net-zero carbon economy and a reliable, secure electricity system. Our context New Zealand’s electricity system is changing rapidly as renewable generation grows. The HVDC link is critical national infrastructure, connecting the North and South Island transmission grids and enabling renewable electricity to flow to where it is needed most. The HVDCLinkUpgradeProgrammewillreplace the three existing high-voltage direct current cablesconnectingthe North and South Island power systemsand installa fourth cable of the same typeto increasecapacity.Together with sixotherrelatedprojects, this major programme will deliver long-term reliability, marketresilience,and value for electricity usersby 2032. The opportunity This is a rare opportunity to help deliver one of New Zealand’s most important electricity infrastructure programmes. Working within the HVDCLinkUpgradeProgrammeteam,you’lllead and support complex work packages from definition through to commissioning, partnering with internal specialists, operations teams, service provider and major contractors to keep delivery safe, integrated and on track.You could lead orsupport: Fighting Bay Control Roomrelocation andcommissioning , coordinating design, procurement,earthworks,construction, fit-outandcommissioningof a newHVcontrolroomto enabledemolitionof theexistingcontrolroom. Enabling works and site readiness , including site and quarry establishment, vegetation clearance, access upgrades, drainage, earthworks,and construction readiness ahead of majorCableTerminationStationconstruction. Procurement, contractor mobilisation,and constructionlogistics , including consultant and contractor engagementandworks interfacemanagement. Programme interfaces, outages,and operational coordination , working with operations, service providers, and HVDC specialists to manage sequencing, commissioning, and delivery integration. Cable test programme design and delivery ,working with the mainHVcable supplierto provideprojectmanagementoversight of thetest programmevalidatingelectrical, seismic and quality requirements. You’llmanage projectsfrom early definition through to commissioningor close-out,shapingscope,managingsafety and quality, anddeliveringto programme, budget and expectations.You’llinfluence andensure robust safety systems across service providers, helping create an environment where safe behaviours are expected,and consistentlypractised. This role will suit an experienced Project Manager who enjoys complex interfaces, disciplined delivery, commercialproblem-solving,and the satisfaction of seeing nationally important infrastructure come to life. What will you bring? You’llbring a strongdeliveryorientationand a sustainedtrack recordleadinginfrastructure projectsin complex, safety-critical environments.Youunderstand commercial drivers, risk, reportingrigor,stakeholder management, and you know how to keep momentum across scope, cost, , schedule, quality,and safety. Your CV and cover letter will demonstrate: Sound experience delivering complex infrastructure, energy, utilities, heavy industrial or comparable capital works projectsincluding strong commitment to safety culture and knowledge of health and safety legislation in high-risk environments A recognised project managementcredential,preferablyPMPorarelevanttertiaryqualification, or equivalent experience Outstandingwritten and verbal communication,including the ability to navigate complexity and drive clarity Demonstrated ability to engage, influence, and align senior stakeholder, delivery partners and contractors Confidence using project management, reporting and financial management systems Join us at Transpower! At Transpower, our people care deeply about each other and New Zealand. With over 28 ethnicities, there are diverse perspectives,knowledge, and experience, which is willingly shared. We work in the office or onsite for a minimum of three days each week to support collaboration, learning, delivery and culture. You’ll also have flexibility for work and personal commitments, including adaptable daily start and finish times.We prioritise well-being with an excellent range of employee health and wellness benefits—check them out here . Next steps Role closes Wednesday12August; however, applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we may reach out for an informal chat. Existing eligibility to work in New Zealand is essential. Interested in knowing more, and seeing our Wellington head office? Watch a brief video here Transpower’s careers website is the official channel for advertised vacancies. Any correspondence from Transpower regarding a role will be from [email protected] or a similar email address. Please be wary of any invitation email or approach that doesn't look quite right. If you are in any doubt as to whether any correspondence is from Transpower or one of our people, please contact us directly to confirm www.transpower.co.nz/contact-us #J-18808-Ljbffr