We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Geotechnical Engineer – Team Lead to provide strong technical leadership, mentor junior staff, and manage client relationships across two office locations (Auckland and Whangarei). This role is ideal for someone who thrives on variety, takes initiative, and enjoys both technical and people leadership responsibilities.
Who are we?
Cook Costello is a New Zealand family-owned company with more than 40 years' experience of providing Land Development, Design and Engineering Consulting. Operating from Whangarei, Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch our technical team of more than 50 serve local and national clients. Our multi-disciplinary teams of consulting engineers, surveyors and professionals are known for their commitment to integrity and innovation.
Our dedication to excellence drives us to achieve outstanding results with every project. We are passionate about surpassing expectations and delivering exceptional outcomes that stand the test of time.
Our values drive us to challenge convention, collaborate without barriers, and operate with the utmost respect for one another and our clients. Our high trust environment means we know we have each other’s backs and you’re given the autonomy to do great meaningful work. We are accountable to each other, to our clients, to our communities, and to our environment.
About the role
Team Leadership & Mentoring
Supervise and support geotechnical engineering teams across two offices (Auckland and Whangarei).
Provide technical oversight and quality assurance on geotechnical investigations, analysis, and reporting.
Mentor and develop junior and intermediate engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.
Assist with performance reviews, development plans, and team structure discussions.
Project & Client Management
Act as the primary client contact on key projects, ensuring strong, long-term relationships.
Lead and manage geotechnical projects from proposal through to delivery.
Attend and lead important client meetings across both regions.
Business Development
Identify new business opportunities and contribute to the growth of the geotechnical division.
Prepare and review proposals, including scoping, pricing, and scheduling.
Represent the company at industry events, client presentations, and networking functions.
Interoffice Coordination
Travel regularly between both offices (Auckland and Whangarei) to maintain oversight, especially for important client meetings, project kick-offs, and staff matters.
Act as the key liaison to ensure consistency of delivery and team culture across both locations.
Support HR functions including recruitment interviews, onboarding, and internal staff engagement initiatives.
Why You'll Love It Here:
You will be in a leadership position with real influence and autonomy.
You'll have access to industry leading engineering professionals across a multitude of disciplines. In addition, you'll have access to a diverse network that includes architectural designers, surveyors, and other industry experts.
Receive health and wellness benefits to support both the physical and mental well-being of our employees.
Join a team dedicated to fostering an environment where curiosity is encouraged, and where every team member has the chance to reach their full potential.
You'll be rewarded with an industry-competitive salary and benefits package, including flexible working arrangements.
Regularly scheduled company-funded social events and excursions.
Mobile phone handset and phone plan paid for by Cook Costello
High quality noise cancelling headphones
Receive sponsored CPD hours, sponsorship opportunities, and the chance to attend seminars, conferences and training events as part of your career development.
Support with professional memberships, training and conference attendance.
Opportunity to travel domestically and visit stunning locations.
Family friendly office environment – we love pets too
Vehicle allowance or travel reimbursement for interoffice travel
A true work/life balance: leave work at the office, so it won’t creep into your home life
What we need from you
Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering.
Minimum 8–10 years’ geotechnical experience, ideally within a consulting environment.
CPEng (Chartered Professional Engineer) or equivalent, or working towards it.
Demonstrated experience leading teams or mentoring junior staff.
Strong technical capability across a range of geotechnical services including site investigations, foundation design, slope stability, and ground improvement.
Proven ability to build and maintain trusted client relationships.
Good commercial awareness and business development acumen.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Willingness and ability to travel regularly between two office locations (Auckland and Whangarei).
Apply now!
If you're ready to take your career to the next level and make a significant impact in the field of geotechnical engineering, apply now to join our Cook Costello family!
Please email your expression of interest with a cover letter and a CV to our Talent Team at careers@coco.co.nz !
ALL APPLICATIONS ARE TREATED AS CONFIDENTIAL
Please note that you must have a valid New Zealand work or residency visa to be considered for this position
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