Water Operations Supervisor - Waiouru

For over 30 years, PAE has partnered with the New Zealand Defence Force, delivering facilities and asset management services that keep critical environments working and moving. It's a relationship we're incredibly proud of as it reflects the trust placed in us to deliver, every single day.

As a proudly iwi-owned organisation, we recognise our role as kaitiaki - guardians of the environments and communities we support and we are committed to building strong, respectful partnerships grounded in manaakitanga.

We are seeking a Water Operations Supervisor to lead our 3 Waters and Plumbing team at Waiouru Military Camp.

This is a unique opportunity to take ownership of critical drinking water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure that supports one of New Zealand's most significant military training environments. Leading a team of skilled water operators and plumbers, you'll play a vital role in ensuring essential services remain safe, reliable and compliant.

Whether you're an experienced supervisor looking for a fresh challenge or a senior plumbing, treatment or water professional ready to step into your first leadership role, this is an opportunity to grow your career while making a genuine impact.

About the role

As Water Operations Supervisor, you'll provide leadership, technical expertise and operational oversight across Waiouru's Three Waters and plumbing services.

You'll lead the delivery of planned and reactive maintenance, support water and wastewater treatment operations, oversee network performance and ensure compliance with relevant legislation, standards and contractual obligations.

This is a hands-on leadership role that combines technical expertise, team leadership and operational accountability within a unique Defence environment.

What you'll be responsible for

  • Leading, mentoring and developing the 3 Waters and Plumbing team
  • Overseeing drinking water, wastewater and stormwater operations
  • Supporting water treatment and network performance
  • Managing planned and reactive plumbing maintenance activities
  • Monitoring water quality and compliance obligations
  • Managing contractors, resources and subcontractors
  • Driving a strong culture of safety, quality and continuous improvement
  • Maintaining accurate operational records and reporting
  • Building positive relationships with NZDF stakeholders and customers
  • Supporting the reliable operation of critical infrastructure across the camp

What we're looking for

  • A plumbing trade qualification and/or water operations certification
  • Experience in plumbing, water infrastructure or Three Waters operations
  • Leadership experience, or the capability and desire to step into leadership
  • Strong knowledge of water, wastewater and stormwater systems
  • Understanding of relevant legislation, standards and compliance requirements
  • Strong communication, planning and problem-solving skills
  • A practical approach with a focus on safety, quality and customer outcomes
  • A current NZ Driver Licence
  • The ability to obtain and maintain NZDF site clearances

We recognise that great leaders don't always come with a supervisor title. If you're a senior plumbing, treatment or water professional ready to take the next step in your career, we'd love to hear from you.

Why this role

  • Opportunity to step into a leadership role
  • Lead critical Three Waters infrastructure supporting Defence operations
  • Work within a unique military training environment
  • Enjoy variety, autonomy and genuine responsibility
  • Housing may be available to support relocation to Waiouru
  • Join a business that empowers its people to make decisions and drive outcomes

To learn more about this opportunity or to request a position description, please contact the People and Culture team at people@pae.co.nz.

Please note that we do not accept applications via email. All applications must be submitted through SEEK or the PAE Careers Page.

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