Principal Civil Engineer - Aviation

Job Description

Principal Civil Engineer – Aviation
Shape a better world with Mott MacDonald

At Mott MacDonald, we’re driven by a clear and ambitious purpose: to improve society by considering social outcomes in everything we do. As one of the world’s largest employee-owned engineering, management, and development consultancies, we empower our people to make a meaningful impact through collaboration, innovation, and integrity.

We are one of the world’s most experienced aviation consultancies, trusted by governments, civil aviation authorities, airport companies, and investors. Our global portfolio includes landmark projects such as London Heathrow, Hong Kong International Airport, Singapore Changi, and New York JFK.

Your Opportunity

We’re looking for a Principal Engineer to join our New Zealand Aviation team and help shape the future of aviation infrastructure across the region. This is a purpose-driven leadership role where you’ll guide strategic direction, oversee technical excellence, and contribute to the growth of our aviation and airports business.

What you’ll do

• Lead the delivery of airfield engineering design and construction monitoring, including layouts, paving, ground lighting, systems, utilities, and terminal interfaces
• Develop and grow the capabilities of our civil and systems teams in airfield design
• Engage with clients to raise awareness of Mott MacDonald’s aviation expertise and position us for future opportunities
• Provide technical oversight and operational leadership across aviation projects
• Collaborate with regional and global aviation teams to share knowledge, resources, and best practices
• Inspire and mentor team members, fostering a culture of growth, inclusion, and excellence

About you

To thrive in this role, you’ll bring:

• Experience in planning and delivering major aviation capital or change programmes
• Strong understanding of aerodrome regulations, airfield operations, and navigation systems
• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant civil engineering discipline
• A collaborative mindset and passion for mentoring others
• A proactive approach to both delivering exceptional work and identifying new opportunities

Why Mott MacDonald?

We’re committed to creating an environment that is:

• Inspirational and empowering – where your ideas and leadership make a real impact
• Collaborative and inclusive – where diverse perspectives are valued and celebrated
• Trustworthy and responsible – where integrity guides everything we do
• Supportive and caring – where wellbeing is prioritised and achievements are recognised
• Purpose-driven and impactful – where your work contributes to shaping a better future

We offer:

• A flexible and agile work environment that supports your professional and personal journey
• The Salary band for this role is $140,000 - $160,000 plus kiwisaver
• Discretionary Group and Personal Performance Bonuses for eligible employees
• Enhanced KiwiSaver contributions and comprehensive insurance coverage
• The option to purchase additional annual leave to support work-life balance
• A culture that values diversity, promotes teamwork, and celebrates success

Ready to fly?
Join a team that helps clients navigate uncertainty, solve complex problems, and deliver impactful outcomes through collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

We put equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of our business, seeking to promote fair employment procedures and practices to ensure equal opportunities for all. We encourage individual expression in our workplace and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels they have the opportunity to contribute.

Agile working

At Mott MacDonald, we believe it makes business sense for you and your manager to choose how you can work most effectively to meet your client, team and personal commitments. We embrace agility, flexibility and trust.