Project Engineer –Mechanical

WM New Zealand is New Zealand's leading resource recovery, recycling, and waste management provider. We’re committed to safeguarding our beautiful environment through sustainable management of our valuable resources. Put simply, sustainability is what we do.

About the Role

Are you passionate about delivering infrastructure projects focused on mechanical systems? We are looking for a Mechanical Project Engineer to lead key capital upgrades that improve the performance and sustainability of our facilities. This includes projects such as MRF conveyor installations, gas generator replacements, and flare system upgrades.

Reporting to the Head of Engineering, you will lead and deliver landfill-based mechanical projects, taking ownership from concept through to completion. You will ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget, while maintaining a practical, hands-on approach to managing contractors, costs, and programme.

You will be responsible for managing project costs and schedules day to day, keeping a close handle on budgets, tracking progress against the programme, and stepping in early to address any risks to delivery.

You will also support the development of new initiatives, including solar, battery energy storage, and thermal recovery projects, helping move them from early-stage concepts into practical, deliverable projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage contractors and consultants on site, ensuring work is delivered safely, efficiently, and to the required standard
• Lead mechanical capital projects from planning through to commissioning and handover
• Manage project budgets and schedules, maintaining control of costs, tracking progress, and resolving issues before they impact delivery
• Coordinate the replacement and installation of gas generators, flare systems, and all mechanical plant within the landfill ecosystem. 
• Support the development and delivery of strategic projects such as solar, battery storage, and thermal recovery
• Prepare Whole-of-Life cost estimates and support CAPEX approvals
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and internal standards
• Keep project documentation, reports, and timelines up to date
• Deliver complete handovers including as-built drawings and maintenance information

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 to 5 years of experience in mechanical project management within infrastructure, energy systems, or similar commercial engineering works.
• Experience in managing contractors and consultants for large-scale mechanical installations.
• Strong understanding of safety performance and environmental regulations.
• Experience with NZS 3910 (or similar) contract administration and project cost management systems.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar design software is preferred.
• Tertiary qualifications in electrical or mechanical engineering.
• Knowledge in fault tracing, and diagnostics of mechanical systems

What’s in it for you.

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• A supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and encourages work-life balance.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact by contributing to sustainability and environmental conservation efforts.

If you are driven to contribute to the future of sustainable infrastructure and have the experience and qualifications outlined above, apply now to join our team as a Project Engineer – Mechanical.

How to Apply: 

Go ahead and click 'I'm interested', We review applications on an ongoing basis, so don't hesitate to apply early.

Waste Management is an equal opportunity employer, promoting drug and alcohol-free workplaces.

Applicants must be in New Zealand and hold a current work visa/residency or NZ citizenship.

Join us in creating a cleaner, greener future! Your journey with us starts here!