Project Manager - HVDC

Transpower's purpose is to empower the energy future for New Zealand - a future that delivers a net-zero carbon economy and a reliable, secure electricity system.

Our context

Much of New Zealand's electricity is generated from renewable energy sources (primarily hydro, and increasingly wind and solar) located in remote areas. Essential to powering our country, the HVDC link connects the transmission grid between the North and South Islands and plays an increasingly important role in balancing intermittent renewable generation across both Islands.

The HVDC Upgrade Programme (HVDC Project) aims to replace the three existing high-voltage direct current cables that connect the North Island and South Island power transmission systems with like-for-like cables by 2032, while also installing a fourth cable of the same type. In addition to replacing the cables, a further six projects make up the overall programme of works. The key objectives are to provide value to electricity users and ensure works are:

• Fit-for-purpose, particularly in coordinating with technology to provide 40 years of reliable service
• Commissioned with minimal impact on the electricity market

The opportunity

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant multi-year programme (read more about this here: https://www.transpower.co.nz/hvdc-upgrade). You will be involved in projects such as:

• HVDC Controls replacement
• Design and construction of a new filter bank
• Investigation and implementation of a Pole 2 overload scheme

You’ll lead projects from early definition through to commissioning. You’ll work closely with internal specialists and external design-and-build partners to shape scope, manage safety and quality, and deliver to programme, budget and stakeholder expectations. Safety is central to the role. You’ll influence and assure robust safety systems across service providers, helping create an environment where safe behaviours are expected and consistently practiced.

You’ll further develop and apply strong commercial and delivery judgement, understanding what drives cost, schedule and risk, and using that insight to find practical efficiencies and whole-of-life value. You’ll broaden your impact across engineering, procurement, and construction while building positive relationships at all levels through clear communication and diligent delivery.

What will you bring?

A delivery orientation and a proven, sustained track record of delivering a range of infrastructure projects and programmes. You have previously worked to understand and implement bespoke, complex commercial contract terms (non-standard contracts) and have a strong end-to-end understanding of the need for structured reporting systems, outcomes, optimisation and mitigation within a project context.

Your CV and cover letter will demonstrate

• Understanding of HVDC & Power Electronics and controls, or similar systems, and their significance
• A recognised project management qualification, preferably PMP or equivalent
• Clear communication skills, both written and oral, and an inclusive and collaborative style
• The ability to engage and influence key stakeholders, partners, and contractors
• A commitment to safety culture and knowledge of health and safety legislation, particularly as it applies to high-risk industries
• Good computer literacy, including use of databases, project management and financial management systems

Join us at Transpower

With over 28 nationalities, our people provide diverse perspectives, knowledge, and deep and varied experience which they love to share and which we celebrate. We work in the office or on-site for a minimum of three days each week, which helps us build and maintain relationships, support learning, deliver outcomes, and sustain our culture.

This approach also offers staff the flexibility they need for both work and personal commitments, with adaptable daily start and finish times.

We prioritise wellbeing with a range of employee health and wellness benefits - check them out here.

Next steps

To apply for this unique opportunity to help upgrade New Zealand's vital electricity connection, please review the position description above and submit your application along with a cover letter outlining your interest without delay.

Role closes Monday, 22 June.

Existing eligibility to work in Aotearoa New Zealand is required.