Assistant Design Manager - Architecture

Help shape smarter, consistent housing designs that deliver quality homes faster and more cost-effectively. Build your architectural expertise while improving the design standards, tools and resources used across Kāinga Ora. Newmarket based, permanent role + 5 weeks' annual leave and insurance benefits Te whiwhinga mahi - Our opportunity As Assistant Design Manager – Architecture, you’ll help shape the design standards, tools and resources that support the delivery of quality Kāinga Ora homes across Aotearoa. Based in the Design Standardisation and Improvement team, the role focuses on improving the Design Library so it remains practical, consistent and easy for internal teams and external design consultants to use. You’ll help balance good design and customer needs with faster delivery, lower construction costs and better long-term value. Your work will include updating architectural content using Revit, BIM Collaborate Pro, Excel and Adobe Creative Suite, contributing to standard house designs, and developing clear standards, guidance and supporting tools. You’ll also research design and residential construction improvements, support new initiatives and development projects, and turn technical information into engaging presentations for a range of stakeholders. Working across Kāinga Ora and with consultants, industry, government and academic partners, you’ll help embed better design practices and improve how homes are planned, designed and delivered. Ngā Pūmanawatanga Ōu - What You Will Bring You’ll bring a strong foundation in design, a collaborative approach and an interest in creating quality housing outcomes for customers and communities. To Succeed In This Role, You’ll Have Tertiary qualification in design, construction or architecture, ideally progressing towards architectural registration. Experience in building design or delivery, preferably within residential housing. Proficiency in Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office and presentation tools. Strong relationship‑building, teamwork, presentation and communication skills. Understanding of social housing, diverse customer needs and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations. Nōu te rourou - What's in it for you? We offer competitive salaries, five weeks' annual leave and a benefits package including a range of insurances, flexible working arrangements and career development. These benefits are described in more detail here https://careers.kaingaora.govt.nz/a-great-place-to-work/benefits Mō mātou - Our Organisation At Kāinga Ora, our mahi sits at the heart of Aotearoa’s housing system. Every day, we help shape how our customers live today and into the future. It’s meaningful mahi, and we’re transforming how we work so we can deliver even better outcomes. Our Transformation Focuses On Three Things Our future – building a high performing organisation that delivers quality housing for generations. Our tenants – warm, dry, well maintained homes and the right support to help people live well. Our people – simple processes, modern technology and opportunities to learn, grow and thrive. Guided by our values, we work together, put customers at the centre and continually challenge ourselves to be better. Kāinga Ora is a place where people feel valued and supported. You’ll find opportunities to grow your skills and build a career you’re proud of, with fair pay and flexible ways of working that support both our people and our customers. Ō tātou uara - Our values Manaakitanga – People at the Heart Mahi Tahi – Better Together Whanake – Be Bold Applications close on Friday, 21 August 2026 at 11:55pm. We value diversity and are committed to working with each other and our customers in an inclusive and respectful way. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and appreciate the richness of experience that your point of difference brings to the organisation. #J-18808-Ljbffr