Engineering Manager

Mō mātou | About Us

At The Lines Company (TLC), we’ve been powering the King Country for nearly 100 years. As a community-owned electricity distribution company, everything we do is about people — our customers, our communities, and our team.

Our Engineering Team plays a critical role in ensuring the safe, reliable, and future-ready operation of our network. They don’t just keep the lights on — they help shape how our network evolves, embracing technology, sustainability, and innovation to meet the needs of generations to come.

Mō te tūranga | About the Role

We’re looking for an experienced Engineering Manager (Kaiwhakahaere Pūkaha) to lead our in-house Engineering Team.

This is a highly project-focused role where you’ll take ownership of delivering TLC’s three-year work programme — including major projects like substations, large solar connections, and network alterations.

While leadership is a key part of the role, this isn’t a “sit behind the desk” type of position — you’ll need to be hands-on, actively involved in engineering decisions, commissioning, and solving complex network challenges alongside your team.

You’ll sit at the intersection of technical expertise and leadership — guiding your people while also rolling up your sleeves to ensure delivery.

Your day-to-day will include

• Leading, coaching, and developing a high-performing team of engineers
• Delivering major infrastructure and capital projects end-to-end
• Providing hands-on engineering input into commissioning and network changes
• Reviewing and introducing new technologies and equipment onto the network
• Maintaining and enhancing Network Design Standards, policies, and procedures
• Contributing to Asset Management Plan development and long-term strategy
• Supporting network performance, planning, and maintenance improvements
• Championing a strong safety culture and leading by example

Nā tāu rourou | What you’ll bring

5+ years’ experience in the electricity distribution network industry

Bachelor of Engineering (or equivalent recognised qualification)

Proven leadership experience — you know how to build, motivate, and grow a team

Strong project delivery experience across complex infrastructure programmes

A practical, hands-on approach to engineering — comfortable getting into the detail when needed

Strong understanding of network design, planning, and asset lifecycle management

Excellent relationship management and communication skills

Sound judgement and the ability to make decisions in complex environments

You’ll also bring a collaborative approach and a genuine willingness to contribute to building a culturally intelligent organisation — because at TLC, how we work together matters just as much as what we deliver.

He aha tā mātou | What we offer

• A key leadership role with real influence over the future of our network
• The opportunity to lead high-impact, complex projects that shape our region
• A supportive, close-knit team environment
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• A values-driven organisation that genuinely cares about its people
• Work-life balance and flexibility
• A lifestyle role based in Te Kūiti — the heart of the King Country

Me pēhea te tono | How to apply

Applications close the 6th July (we’ll review applications as they come in — don’t wait!)

Please note: Applicants must be a NZ Citizen, Resident, or hold a valid work visa. Pre-employment checks (MOJ, medical, and drug/alcohol screening) apply.

If you’re ready to lead from the front — both as a leader and an engineer — and help deliver the future of our network, we’d love to hear from you.