Network Planning and Integrity Manager - Wellington

Network Planning and Integrity Manager

Position Description

• Help run the network that keeps Wellington moving
• Forward-thinking leadership
• Permanent, Wellington based

He kōrero mō mātou | About us:

At KiwiRail, we connect New Zealanders sustainably, powering economic growth and ensuring vital freight and passenger services run smoothly. Our mission, "Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand," highlights our dedication to sustainability and community well-being. 

Our people make KiwiRail exceptional. By fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace, we empower everyone to contribute their best. If you’re passionate about innovation and safety, we’d love to welcome you aboard. 

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role:

This is a pivotal leadership role at the centre of the Wellington Metro network—shaping how we plan, prioritise, and deliver work so trains can run safely and reliably, every day.

You’ll sit at the heart of the system—connecting asset condition, risk, funding, and access to make the right calls on what work gets done, when, and how.

What you'll do

• Own network integrity – know the condition, risks, and what needs to be done to keep trains running safely
• Set the plan – build and prioritise a clear, multi-year programme of renewals and interventions
• Make the trade-offs – balance safety, reliability, customer impact, and funding constraints
• Join it all up – align inspections, maintenance, and capital works into one executable plan
• Turn strategy into delivery – define a ready-to-go work bank the network can actually deliver
• Lead the function – build a strong, disciplined planning and integrity team
• Advise with credibility – give clear, trusted guidance to senior leaders on risk and investment decisions

What we’re looking for

• A senior operator who can cut through complexity and make decisions
• Strong judgement across asset risk, operations, and delivery
• Experience planning work in a complex, live network (rail, transport, utilities)
• Someone who can see the whole system and not just one part of it
• Clear communicator—able to turn complex programmes into simple, actionable plans
• A leader who brings people with them and lifts performance

Why this role matters

• When we get planning right, the railway works
  When we don’t, everyone feels it—customers, operators, and the city
• This role is critical to delivering a safe, reliable, and predictable railway for Wellington

Why join us

• Lead work that has real impact on the city every day
• Be part of a team focused on simplifying, improving, and delivering better outcomes
• Work at the centre of major decisions about network performance and investment

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What (skills) you will bring:

• A senior operator who can cut through complexity and make decisions
• Strong judgement across asset risk, operations, and delivery
• Experience planning work in a complex, live network (rail, transport, utilities)
• Someone who can see the whole system and not just one part of it
• Clear communicator—able to turn complex programmes into simple, actionable plans
• A leader who brings people with them and lifts performance

Qualifications 

• You have a relevant tertiary qualification (e.g. engineering, transport, operations, planning, business) or equivalent experience

• Training or certification in project management, scheduling or operations planning is an advantage

• You are willing to complete required rail, marine and health & safety training for the role

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:

• Competitive salary plus 4% KiwiSaver employer contribution
• 25 annual leave days
• Access to join NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust where you will enjoy a range of benefits including access to holiday homes across New Zealand, as well as support for optometry, physiotherapy, GP services and prescription costs
• A wide range of discounts at retailers and on scenic trains and Interislander
• Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace dedicated to innovation, sustainability and community impact

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?

Rā aukati | Applications close:  24 May 2026