Technical Director - River Engineering

Shape the Future of New Zealand’s Waterways Pattle Delamore Partners (PDP) is a respected environmental and engineering consultancy with a nationwide presence. Across Aotearoa, we partner with clients and communities, working within our environment to deliver lasting solutions for people and place through our multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, planners, and advisors.

We’re passionate about solving New Zealand’s most pressing environmental and infrastructure challenges, and we’re looking for an experienced Technical Director – River Engineer to join our Christchurch team.

About the Role

As a key technical leader, you’ll play a crucial role in shaping our river engineering and flood modelling services. You’ll work on a diverse range of projects, collaborating with some of the country’s most respected scientists and engineers. You will: Lead and develop river engineering and flood modelling consultancy services.

Drive business development by maintaining client relationships, securing new opportunities, and representing PDP at industry conferences. Oversee and review river engineering tasks, including rock rip-rap revetment design, stream channel design, and complex spatial data analysis (e.g., cross-section surveys, LiDAR). Manage and review hydraulic and flood modelling studies for river systems and catchments.

Lead technical projects, coordinating staff and subcontractors, liaising with clients and regulators, and managing budgets. Prepare high-quality technical reports and expert evidence for hearings. Provide end-to-end project solutions—from initial discussions to completion. Ensure compliance with health and safety, quality, and technical standards.

What you’ll bring: We’re looking for an experienced and passionate professional with: A postgraduate qualification in Environmental, Civil, or Geotechnical Engineering, Geography, or Natural Resource Management. CPEng status is a plus. 15+ years of experience in river engineering, flood modelling, and/or river geomorphology.

A recognised reputation in New Zealand’s river sector, with a drive to further develop expertise. Strong business development skills, including client engagement and project sourcing. Exceptional technical report writing and communication skills. A solutions-driven mindset with the ability to navigate complex environmental challenges.

The flexibility to travel within NZ and work in remote locations when required Why join PDP? Competitive salary and annual remuneration reviews. Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance. Fully subsidised health insurance and income protection. Ability to purchase additional annual leave through salary sacrifice.

Salary top-up for primary carers on parental leave. Professional membership fee coverage and support for further study. Ongoing mentoring from experienced engineers and technical leaders. Exposure to a diverse range of water infrastructure projects across New Zealand. Opportunities to get involved in our sustainability, community, wellbeing, and inclusion initiatives.

About PDP PDP is one of Aotearoa New Zealand's leading environmental science, engineering and advisory consultancies. Guided by our purpose, Today Shapes Tomorrow, we care deeply about delivering solutions for our clients and communities that meet today’s needs, while providing for the future. Join our multi-disciplinary team, and help create innovative and enduring outcomes for people, place, economy, and environment.

Application If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you. Submit your application today. For more information about the role, contact us at careers@pdp.co.nz. We look forward to hearing from you.