Project Manager - HV Substations

Power New Zealand’s Energy Future:Are you a seasoned project manager with a strong electrical background and a passion for leading high-voltage (HV) substation builds and upgrades? Join Northpower’s Transmission team and take charge of delivering nationally significant infrastructure projects that keep the lights on across Aotearoa. This is your opportunity to lead complex HV substation projects from concept to completion safely, on time, and on budget while working with a high-performing, tight-knit team that values quality, integrity, and continuous improvement.What You’ll Be Doing:Reporting to the Project Delivery Manager Transmission Stations, you’ll manage substation construction and upgrade projects throughout the full lifecycle. From estimating and planning to execution and closeout, you’ll be at the centre of delivery.You’ll collaborate with field managers, schedulers, outage planners, designers, customers, suppliers, and contractors — keeping everyone aligned and projects moving forward. Your leadership will ensure technical excellence, commercial success, and compliance with Transpower and Northpower standards.Your week might include:Leading end-to-end delivery of HV substation projectsPlanning and managing resources to hit key milestonesLiaising with clients, consultants, suppliers, and internal teamsManaging project financials, variations, and reportingConducting project handovers, site audits, and safety checksSupporting estimation and pricing on new opportunitiesDriving continuous improvement across delivery processesEnsuring all work meets safety, quality, and compliance standards Performance & AccountabilityYou’ll be expected to:Lead safety within your team, supported by H&S reps and systemsMonitor KPIs including Delivery (>95%), Responsiveness, Quality, and YTLRun monthly KPI reports and follow up on failures with relevant PMsAttend monthly and quarterly performance meetings with stakeholdersReview WIP and financials on the 2nd working day of each monthContribute to forecasting, aged WIP tracking, and forward commitmentsUse tools like Maximo, CAT, and Transpower BI for reporting and analysisWhat We’re Looking ForWe’re after a proactive self-starter with a solid electrical background ideally in the transmission or distribution sector. You’ll bring:Three plus years of project management experience in HV or electrical environmentsA qualification in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experienceFamiliarity with HV systems, network standards, and NZ safety regulationsStrong commercial and contract management skillsConfidence using MS Project, Excel, Word, and job costing toolsExcellent communication and stakeholder engagement skillsA full Class 1 driver’s licenceBonus if you have experience using PRINCE2® or PMP® certification and knowledge of NZQA 18275/12300 units (or equivalent)About us:Northpower is one of the largest multi-utility contractors in New Zealand, servicing the needs of clients in transmission, distribution, generation, fibre and commercial sectors. We have a reputation for excellence and innovation, providing commercially viable solutions for electrical and telecommunication design, construction, and maintenance requirements. We have over 1,400 employees working together across 16 locations to keep the power on and the lights going for our customers.Ready to Lead the Future of Energy:Apply now #req1740 and be part of a team that’s building New Zealand’s grid resilience. Help us deliver safe, reliable, and high-quality HV substation projects that power communities and industries across the country.