Substation Engineering & Commissioning Manager

Substation Engineering & Commissioning Manager

📍 New Plymouth, Tauranga or Wellington

🕐 Permanent - Full-time

We’re looking for an experienced substation engineer to lead our Substation Engineering team within Electricity Design.

This role has responsibility for technical leadership, people leadership, and ensuring high-quality engineering advice, design, and commissioning outcomes across Powerco’s substation portfolio.

The role

Reporting to the Head of Design and Asset Information, you’ll lead a team of 6–8 engineers and provide engineering direction across the business. You’ll support key technical decisions, maintain standards, and work closely with internal teams and external delivery partners.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage the substation engineering team
• Ensure delivery of quality engineering advice, designs, and standards
• Provide technical leadership across substation design and commissioning
• Support commissioning activities and outcomes
• Maintain Powerco and industry engineering standards
• Work closely with internal stakeholders and external partners
• Champion Safety in Design and Health & Safety
• Contribute to industry capability, training, and development

What we’re looking for

• Proven experience leading technical or engineering teams
• Strong background in substation design, installation, and commissioning
• Experience working with consultants and contractors
• Knowledge of network planning, design, maintenance, and technical standards
• Ability to translate plans into practical delivery
• A recognised qualification in Electrical Engineering (BE, NZCE); chartership or post-graduate study is an advantage

Skills and approach

• Clear, confident communicator
• Comfortable making risk-based decisions
• Able to hold yourself and others accountable
• Works well across teams and functions
• Focused on quality, safety, and delivery

Some travel across the Powerco footprint is required.

If you’re looking for a senior engineering leadership role with real influence across the network, we’d like to hear from you.

📅 Applications close: Friday 16 January 2026

Our ability to get the best out of people is what sets Powerco apart. We realise that candidates – especially from underrepresented and neurodiverse backgrounds – often won’t apply for roles unless they meet ALL the criteria. We encourage anyone who shares our passion for connecting communities to apply for any role that aligns to your strengths and interests. We will provide a safe space where you can bring your whole self to work and thrive.  

If you would benefit from support or adjustments in order to participate equitably in the recruitment process, please phone 0800 769372 or email kiaora@powerco.co.nz