Supervisor Substations

Te kōwhiringa | The Opportunity
Downer's Energy & Utilities team is seeking an experienced Substations Supervisor to join our Taupō-based Transmission team.
Reporting to the Construction Manager, you'll be responsible for planning, scheduling, coordinating, and supervising field employees, subcontractors, plant, and equipment to deliver transmission substation construction projects safely, on time, and to a high standard. You'll lead day-to-day field operations, optimise resources, manage programme performance, and ensure strong customer and stakeholder relationships are maintained.
Key responsibilities include:

• Leading transmission substation construction teams and field operations
• Planning and scheduling resources, labour, plant, and equipment
• Managing work programmes to achieve quality, safety, and productivity targets
• Monitoring budgets, costs, productivity, and financial performance
• Coaching, mentoring, and developing field employees
• Managing subcontractors and ensuring competency and compliance requirements are met
• Building positive relationships with clients, landowners, and stakeholders
• Supporting tendering activities for small to medium-sized contracts
• Promoting Downer's Zero Harm culture and environmental commitments
• Participating in after-hours fault response support as required

Ngā pūkenga matua | What We're Looking For 
We're looking for a practical and motivated leader with a strong background in transmission substations and a passion for delivering safe, high-quality outcomes.
You'll bring:

• Hands-on experience in transmission substation construction activities
• Proven experience leading and supervising field-based teams
• Strong knowledge of current electrical industry regulations and requirements
• Experience planning, scheduling, and coordinating construction work programmes
• Excellent communication and stakeholder relationship management skills
• Strong organisational, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
• Basic computer literacy and the ability to complete reports and documentation
• A commitment to safety, environmental responsibility, and continuous improvement
• Physical capability to work in demanding operational environments
• Full New Zealand driver's licence

The following would be advantageous:

• National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Electrical) Level 4 or equivalent
• Supervisory qualification or leadership training
• Previous experience in a similar transmission construction supervisory role
• Transpower competencies and authorisations

Ngā Painga o te Mahi ki Downer | What We Offer
Our purpose is to enable communities to thrive, driven by your passion and dedication.
We offer:

• Career: Ongoing training, development, and leadership opportunities
• Wellbeing: Zero Harm culture, free confidential counselling, Marram healthcare benefits, and holiday home access
• Community: Employee-led networks including StandOut, Fetu Pasifika, EmpowerHER, and Wāhine Kotahitanga
• Individuality: Access to Perks@Downer discounts across retail, travel, health, and lifestyle providers
• Competitive remuneration package
• Company vehicle, laptop, and mobile phone

Ko wai mātou | About Energy & Utilities 
Downer's Energy & Utilities business is an integrated trans-Tasman team delivering services that connect communities to essential networks and infrastructure.
We design, build, operate, and maintain critical assets across water, electricity, telecommunications, industrial, and power generation sectors.
Downer is an inclusive employer that values diversity and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and cultures.
How to Apply | Me pēhea ki te tono
If this sounds like the opportunity for you, click Apply to submit your application.
Successful applicants will be required to complete a pre-employment drug and alcohol screen, medical assessment, and Ministry of Justice check.
Please submit your application online via the advertisement. Email applications will not be accepted.
Downer does not accept unsolicited resumes, fees, or costs from recruitment agencies, search firms, or third parties. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Downer will be deemed the property of Downer.