Environmental Planner

Join AECOM’s National Environmental Planning Team and take a pivotal role in shaping some of New Zealand’s most high-profile and complex infrastructure projects. We are looking for a Planner to join our Christchurch Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to take the next step in your career, working alongside experienced professionals on diverse and technically challenging projects across New Zealand.

We are willing to support relocation within New Zealand or applicants from overseas who have prior New Zealand experience.

How you’ll make a difference:

• Review and analyse planning documents to determine requirements, develop methodologies, and provide advice to support necessary approvals.
• Identify key environmental risks and provide expert planning assistance to local, regional, and national authorities.
• Prepare, manage, and support planning approval applications (e.g., resource consents, plan changes, notices of requirement, outline plans of works).
• Manage the preparation of submissions on planning documents and lead stakeholder consultation on behalf of clients.
• Support project delivery, including planning initiatives, resourcing, invoicing, and financial tracking within New Zealand.

The qualities that help you thrive

The following qualifications and experience are highly desired, but if you don’t tick all the boxes you could still be a perfect fit for this role. Please apply, all applications will be considered.

• Appropriate tertiary qualification
• 2-5 years’ experience in environmental planning within a consultancy, council, or similar environment is essential
• Eligibility for Membership of New Zealand Planning Institute
• Understanding of the:
  • Resource Management Act 1991, associated National Policy Statements and National Environmental Standards and any proposed and/or enacted amendments
  • Relevant Operative and Proposed Regional Policy Statements, Regional Plans and District Plans and any Proposed or Operative Changes
  • Roles and functions of territorial local authorities, regional councils and the Environmental Protection Authority
• Strong oral and written communication skills; report writing, development of proposals
• Demonstrated time management and organisational skills

Why you’ll love working with us

• Flexible work arrangements, including alternative start/finish times, part-time, job-sharing and hybrid work options
• Purchase up to 6 weeks additional annual leave per year         
• Volunteer and representation leave
• Flex public holidays – swap Easter or other holidays for ones that suit you better

Ready to push the limits of what’s possible?

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and/or neurodiverse conditions. If you require any adjustments during the hiring process, please let us know.

Applications are reviewed as they come in, and the role may close earlier than expected, so if this opportunity sounds like you, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

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About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.