The role

See more about the role below, including the responsibilities and skills we are looking for.



Surface Water Operations Engineer

Rolleston, New Zealand

Reference: 6788855

Ready to make waves in your career?

  • Got a knack for making stormwater, land drainage, and water races work?
  • Want to work where your skills actually make a splash?
  • Keen to join one of New Zealand's fastest-growing districts?

If you answered "yes" (or even "maybe"), keep reading, this might just be your next big move

About the role:

We're on the lookout for a Surface Waters Operations Engineer to join our high-performing Surface Waters team. You will manage operational work to Selwyn's surface water systems, from stormwater and land drainage to our iconic stock water races. It's a role with real impact, where no two days (or rain events) are the same.

You'll be responsible for:

  • Supporting operations and asset management of stormwater treatment facilities, pump stations, and open channel schemes.
  • Leading the charge during flooding and emergency events (cape optional).
  • Providing technical guidance on stormwater discharges and flood hazards.
  • Implementing Operational Management Plans (OMPs) and conducting inspections.
  • Managing stock water race schemes, efficiently and sustainably.

About you:

You're not just technically sharp, you're also a great communicator who can navigate the sometimes-muddy waters between urban and rural stakeholders.

You'll bring:

  • A degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
  • 5+ years' experience in surface water, stormwater, or drainage infrastructure.
  • Hands-on knowledge of waterways, culverts, wetlands, and reticulation networks.
  • Familiarity with legislation like the RMA, LGA, and Water Services Bill.
  • The ability to review engineering plans and keep things compliant and practical.
  • Bonus points if you can explain a stormwater model without putting your audience to sleep.

What we can offer:

We know great people have options, so here's what we offer to help you choose us:

  • Life insurance
  • Flexible work options and genuine work-life balance
  • Career coaching and professional development
  • Paid wellbeing and volunteer leave
  • Three paid days off between Christmas and New Year
  • Two weeks paid partner's leave
  • Sick leave from day one
  • Continued KiwiSaver contributions during savings suspension
  • Discounts with local and national businesses

About us:

Selwyn is booming and we're proud to be part of that growth. Our district offers a fantastic lifestyle, vibrant communities, and easy access to Canterbury's natural playground. Our head office is in Rolleston, just 25km from Christchurch.

We live by our values:

Be a good human · Be brave - Think differently · Better together- Make it happen for Selwyn.

Selwyn is booming and we're proud to be part of that growth. Our district offers a fantastic lifestyle, vibrant communities, and easy access to Canterbury's natural playground. Our head office is in Rolleston, just 25km from Christchurch.

We honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and we are committed to working with our Treaty partner to deliver on our obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

We value the safety of our community - this role requires a satisfactory safety check including Ministry of Justice check and for you to pass a drug and alcohol test.

Ready to dive in?

Apply now and help shape the future of Selwyn's surface water systems. We'll be reviewing applications as they are recieved, so don't wait for the rain to start!

A relocation package maybe available, are you looking to move to the fastest growing district with the best people?


Applications Close: 10 Aug 2025


  • Why Work Here?

    Selwyn is the best place to live, work and play.

  • This Is Selwyn

    Our values are important to all of us and represent the way we work. They underpin our friendly and innovative culture.

  • Contact

    Want to talk to us about joining the team? Get in touch.