Project Manager

About us

At Cook Brothers Construction, we back our teams to take ownership, make smart calls, and deliver with pride. Our strength lies in our people and their drive to continually raise the bar. This has led to a legacy of 20 years of dedication and teamwork. We value hard work, celebrate achievements, and take pride in the results we create and the connections we form.

From our Dunedin roots to growth across Auckland, Canterbury, Southern Lakes, Wānaka, and Otago, we’ve built a reputation as one of New Zealand’s leading construction firms.

Our foundations are clear: innovation, quality, sustainability, client satisfaction, health, safety and wellbeing.

If you are looking to contribute to a company that values trust, collaboration, and growth, Cook Brothers is the place to be.

About the Role

Looking for a change of pace or a fresh start? Why not beautiful Wanaka—offering stunning walks, great schools, local shopping facilities, and did we mention snow, water sports, and world-class mountain biking?

With continued growth across the business, Cook Brothers Construction is seeking an experienced Project Manager to join our Southern Lakes team in Wanaka. This is an exciting opportunity to lead, mentor, and develop our team and Trade Partners while playing a key role in delivering high-value commercial projects in one of New Zealand’s most breath taking locations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategically plan and manage all aspects of construction projects from start to finish.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, ensuring exceptional service.
• Develop and monitor construction programmes, managing risks proactively.
• Drive Health & Safety excellence across all projects.
• Lead cost control, budget reporting, and achievement of project KPIs.
• Champion quality outcomes and sustainable construction practices.
• Ensure adherence to construction methodology, company policies, and relevant codes and legislation.
• Provide leadership and guidance to Site Managers and Build Teams, working closely with Quantity Surveyors to support team growth and project success.

This role is perfect for a motivated professional looking to expand their leadership capabilities, influence project outcomes, and contribute to the ongoing growth of a high-performing construction business.

About You

Bringing a strong background as a Project Manager in commercial construction with at least 5 years’ experience, you excel in a collaborative team environment, inspiring and mentoring others while leading by example. You take initiative, drive innovation, and embrace the autonomy and growth opportunities available at Cook Brothers Construction.

Skills and Experience:

• Minimum 5 years’ Project Management experience in New Zealand or Australia
• Commercial construction experience, particularly within the Southern Lakes region is a preferences
• Driven to achieve personal success while fostering the success of the team.
• Demonstrated leadership and mentoring experience.
• Excellent communication skills, confident managing challenging conversations
• Proven planning and programme management expertise.
• Strong leadership in Health & Safety.
• Negotiation skills with commercial awareness.
• Experience in financial management and budgeting.
• Proficient with project management software.

Why join us

This is an exceptional chance to join a supportive, high-performing construction team with culture truly comes first. At Cook Brothers Construction, you will be part of a business that thrives on collaboration, celebrates achievements, and empowers people to grow and succeed.

We provide a competitive salary package of between $130,000 and $150,000 depending on experience with health insurance, an active social club and real opportunities for professional development – giving you the platform to make a tangible impact on meaningful projects.

Relocation assistance may also be available for someone relocating within New Zealand.

If you are ready to advance your career with a company that invests in its people and performance, hit Quick Apply, and join a team where your contributions really matter.

At Cook Brothers Construction, health, safety and wellbeing are our top priorities. As part of our commitment to a safe workplace, successful applicants will undergo a pre-employment medical, including drug and alcohol testing.