Contract Manager - Renewals and Contestable in Canterbury

Location: Christchurch preferable

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Lead the delivery of asset renewals and contestable packages for NZ's state highways. Ensure value for money, quality, and compliance across complex contracts. Collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders to optimise network outcomes.

The opportunity

We are looking for a Contract Manager - Renewals and Contestable for our Central South Island region, to ensure the successful delivery of asset renewals and manage contestable packages within your designated area. In this role, you will drive optimal asset performance, value for money, and compliance with quality standards. In addition, you will have the opportunity to:

• Manage all aspects of renewal works delivery, including IDC and contestable packages.
• Act as Contract Administrator under NZS 3910/3917 for contestable packages and support the IDC Contract Administrator.
• Coordinate and optimise delivery of all renewal and contestable activities, ensuring alignment with national standards, regional priorities, and funding.
• Review and verify contractor Renewal Quality Plans (RQPs), implement quality control measures, and ensure compliance.
• Manage contract administration activities: claims, variations, extensions, negotiations, and financial accountability.
• Conduct site audits, attend hold points, and verify completion of renewal works.
• Schedule and monitor pre-renewal maintenance activities for optimal timing.
• Prepare reporting and performance metrics for senior management.
• Participate in the Incident Management Team (IMT) during emergencies.

About you

You will bring strong experience in contract management, ideally within infrastructure maintenance or asset renewal environments, with a proven ability to manage multiple complex contracts and effective contractor relationships. You understand how to balance operational delivery with risk, performance, and value for money across a diverse portfolio.

In addition, you will bring:

• A comprehensive understanding of asset management principles and life-cycle planning.
• Substantial experience in quality assurance, compliance monitoring, and performance management.
• Demonstrated strong capability in financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and contract payment processes, underpinned by a sound understanding of procurement processes and principles.
• A tertiary qualification in engineering, construction management, or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
• A willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori, promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori, and appreciate Te Tiriti o Waitangi as it applies in the public service.

What you will get in return

You will join a team that values wellbeing, collaboration, and courage. We offer:

• A competitive salary and benefits package
• Flexible working arrangements (role dependent)
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance scheme for all permanent employees.

Along with our other benefits, you will be part of an organisation that is committed to making a difference for New Zealanders. We are seeking to appoint ideally at a salary between $135,000.00 and $175,000.00 commensurate to skills and experience.

How to apply: Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Applications close: Sunday 08 February 2026

For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand. NZTA| Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.