Senior to Principal Geotechnical Engineer | Invercargill

Pattle Delamore Partners (PDP) is a leading environmental and engineering consultancy with a strong presence across Aotearoa New Zealand. For nearly 40 years, we have partnered with clients, iwi, and communities to solve complex challenges across air, land, and water, delivering practical solutions that stand the test of time.

As demand for our services continues to grow, we are seeking a Senior to Principal Geotechnical Engineer to support and expand our geotechnical capability in Southland. Based in Invercargill, this role offers the chance to take on meaningful work across a diverse range of projects while enjoying a more affordable lifestyle, shorter commutes, and access to some of New Zealand’s most distinctive natural environments. You will work closely with a well-established national team, with scope to contribute at a senior technical level and, at Principal level, help shape local growth and mentor others.

The opportunity

• Lead & Grow: Drive the strategic expansion of PDP’s geotechnical services in the Southland region.
• Technical Leadership: Provide expert guidance on diverse, complex geotechnical projects from concept to completion.
• Business Development: Build and nurture client relationships to strengthen our local market presence.
• Mentor Capability: Develop a high-performing team and foster technical growth within the wider national Geotechnics group.  

What you’ll do

• Deliver geotechnical and engineering geology projects across a range of sectors.
• Undertake and lead investigations, analysis, design input, and reporting.
• Manage project delivery, including budgets, timelines, and client communication.
• Contribute to developing new opportunities and strengthening client relationships.
• Work closely with other PDP teams including Planning, Contaminated Land, Water Infrastructure, and Water Resources.
• Engage with clients, councils, and contractors to support effective project outcomes.

What you’ll bring

• A degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, or Engineering Geology, or an equivalent qualification.
• 6+ years’ experience in geotechnical engineering or engineering geology, ideally within a consultancy environment.
• Chartered Professional Engineer or Chartered Engineering Geologist status, or working towards this.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build trusted client relationships.
• A collaborative approach and willingness to support and mentor others.
• Sound technical judgement and a focus on practical solutions.

What we offer

• A comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, income protection, salary top up for parental leave and the option to purchase extra annual leave.
• Flexible/hybrid working culture, facilitating a healthy work-life balance.
• Clear support for ongoing professional development, including training, education, and full reimbursement of professional membership fees.
• The opportunity to lead and contribute to projects that have a positive impact on New Zealand’s environment and communities.
• An inclusive, supportive workplace where people are respected and encouraged to succeed.

About us

PDP is a leading New Zealand consultancy specialising in air, land, and water. We cater to diverse projects from major infrastructure works to smaller scale investigations and upgrades in both the municipal and private sectors.  With almost 40 years of experience and a team of 300 experts across multiple locations in NZ, we’re proudly employee-owned and committed to an environment where your expertise is valued, and your career can flourish.  At PDP, we believe a great company is built and nurtured by great people, and so we’re dedicated to providing a fun and supportive environment to our people.