Construction Works Lead - Waikeria at Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections), Waikato

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Lead construction delivery activities for the Waikeria Stage 2 Programme
• Oversee build quality, safety, and delivery performance in a live correctional environment
• Fixed‑term opportunity through to 2030 supporting a major national infrastructure programme

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Ara Poutama Aotearoa is responding to changes in Law and Order settings and forecasts that show increasing pressure on the prison population, which is currently at high levels. As part of our obligations to public safety, improved rehabilitation outcomes, and reducing Māori over‑representation, we are delivering a national prison capacity programme.

We are seeking a Construction Works Lead to support the delivery of the Waikeria Stage 2 Programme, which is a major component of this national initiative. The initial Waikeria build is now operating as business as usual, and this role will focus on the Stage 2 works along with the interfaces between Stage 1 and 2. Stage 2 is currently progressing through contract negotiations before moving into implementation, construction, testing, and handover.

The majority of work will take place on site, supporting the Programme Director by managing the day‑to‑day construction delivery activities. You will work closely with the design team, builders, site leadership, and the wider implementation team to ensure expansion works are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the required standards.

In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing construction interfaces, validating design intent on site, managing contractor performance, and ensuring all works meet safety, quality, and compliance expectations. A key aspect of the role is operating within a security‑sensitive, 24/7 custodial environment, where careful planning, strong communication, and robust risk management are critical.

This fixed term role runs through to early 2030 and will support the programme through construction, commissioning and the final acceptance of the expanded facilities.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Extensive experience delivering construction projects, with strong knowledge of design, building services, and construction methodologies.
• Proven ability to lead and coordinate multidisciplinary technical teams across complex construction environments.
• Construction experience in procurement, contract management, and managing construction partners to performance outcomes.
• Skilled in risk management, planning, and problem solving, ensuring works meet safety, quality, and compliance standards.
• Exceptional communication and relationship‑management skills, enabling effective engagement with site leadership, technical specialists, contractors, and community stakeholders.

Utu ā‑tau | Salary

The midpoint of the salary range is $214,424 per annum, and the full range (85%–120%) is $182,261 – $257,309 per annum. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.

Mō mātou | About us

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Māori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hōkai Rangi strategy.

We value inclusion and diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

Tono ināianei | Apply Now

To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered.

When applying, submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.

Applications close on: Sunday 5th April

If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact Tom.Nicholas@corrections.govt.nz, or visit careers.corrections.govt.nz.