Construction Project Manager, Future Naval Base at NZ Defence Force, Auckland

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Defence Estate and Infrastructure provide, maintains and enhances land and infrastructure assets to support NZDF military capabilities and all of government outcomes.

Our Construction Project Managers are responsible for the delivery of vertical and horizontal capital projects within the Devonport Naval Base. They will help deliver a sustainable and fit-for-purpose estate which will address immediate and longer-term needs, with a focus on improving infrastructure resilience and, ultimately, wellbeing within the Devonport Base community.

This particular role is a fantastic opportunity to be the forefront of the future Naval Base project!

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

Along with significant experience leading, managing and successfully implementing large-scale projects (please be prepared to advise us of your significant projects), you will need the following:

• Proven ability to deal with complex conceptual issues and to apply problem-solving techniques
• Pro-active, ongoing communication and engagement with key stakeholders
• Agile and pragmatic in your approach; able to adapt and respond to changing requirements
• Knowledge of Project Management methodologies and tools e.g. PRINCE2
• Knowledge and experience in managing 3916 and 3910 contracts
• Strong understanding of current standards and industry best practise
• Significant experience motivating, influencing and empowering others

Make your mark, add value and deliver much needed tangible improvements!

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning – safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Monday 8 June 2026.

Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here's what you need to know:

Higher Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last ten (10) years.
• You must have a ten (10) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.