Designer - Roads & Highways

About SMEC

SMEC is a global engineering consultancy with over 13 years of presence in New Zealand, part of the SJ Group and backed by a network of more than 16,000 professionals worldwide. Known for its technical excellence and collaborative approach, SMEC delivers transformative infrastructure solutions across transport, energy, water, and urban development sectors. It holds prestigious international rankings and offers opportunities on nationally significant projects involving leading clients and experts.

Role Overview

We are looking for a highly motivated Roads & Highways Designer to join our New Zealand team, contributing to transport infrastructure projects. This role involves working within multidisciplinary teams to produce technically rigorous, high-quality designs and outcomes that align with client expectations and industry standards, while further developing your skills and expertise.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce high-quality road and highway design outputs adhering to technical standards and client requirements.
• Create drawings, models, and essential documentation using 12d and AutoCAD design and drafting software.
• Contribute inputs to design reports, technical documentation, and participate in peer reviews.
• Ensure compliance with New Zealand standards, client specifications, and health, safety, environment, and quality practices.
• Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary project teams to ensure coordinated and timely delivery.
• Assist engineers and senior designers in developing practical, compliant, and cost-efficient solutions.
• Communicate clearly with internal teams and stakeholders to maintain alignment on project deliverables.
• Manage schedules and budgets to meet deadlines while minimizing rework and ensuring accuracy.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to design tools, processes, and delivery methods.

Candidate Profile

You are a detail-focused roads and highways designer passionate about transport infrastructure, known for collaborative working style and commitment to producing quality engineering outcomes. A strong foundation in road design and a proactive attitude towards continuous development are essential.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in roads and highways design within consulting or infrastructure environments.
• Expertise using 12d as the primary design software; familiarity with Civil 3D or OpenRoads is advantageous.
• Proficient in preparing design drawings and models and generating supporting technical documentation using AutoCAD.
• Knowledgeable about New Zealand transport and road design standards.
• Experience across various project phases including concept, reference, and detailed design.
• Strong communication skills enabling effective collaboration in multidisciplinary teams.
• Possess a solutions-oriented mindset with dedication to quality and continuous improvements.
• Ability to mentor or support other designers within project teams is preferred.

Diversity and Inclusion

SMEC is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, welcoming candidates from all backgrounds. The company supports career progression through mentorship and sponsorship programs, promotes gender balance, and values individual contributions.

Working Environment

Join a collaborative and inclusive culture that encourages professional growth and leadership, offering opportunities to engage with impactful projects and global experts.