Scientist - Freshwater

Mō mātou | About us

We are an enthusiastic bunch of people at Taranaki Regional Council, helping the region continue to be an enviable place to live, play and do business.

Our main office is based right in the centre of the region, under the mountain, in Stratford. We have 3 beautiful gardens; Pukeiti, Tūpare and Hollard Gardens. Many of our staff work on a daily basis around the region and we are a 35 minute commute from New Plymouth (our staff often car pool). This region allows you to have all the big city benefits whilst maintaining a rural lifestyle given the relatively quick ability to move from one town to the next.

Environment Quality is one of our four directorates at the Taranaki Regional Council. The team collects, monitors, compiles and assesses a range of data related to different aspects of the Taranaki environment (i.e. climate, air, land and water). This work informs both regional and national policy development and implementation, and as a directorate contributes to the delivery of state of environment and compliance monitoring and reporting.

Whakatakanga & Whanonga pono| Mission & Values

Our mission is to work for a thriving Taranaki by promoting the sustainable use, development and protection of our natural and physical resources, and advocating for the region’s best interests.

We are committed to; public service, a service first approach, improving the quality of our performance, working safely, effective communication and teamwork, initiative and the right to make mistakes, accountability and results, presentation, respect and care and job satisfaction.

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The role of Scientist - Freshwater - is to contribute specialist expertise and advice across a range of the Council’s environmental and statutory functions. This role has a particular focus on freshwater ecology (benthic invertebrates, freshwater fish, periphyton, etc.). This role will require you to use your technical competencies alongside your project planning, coordination and delivery skills. You’ll be an effective team player, working in close collaboration with other members of the Freshwater & Coastal team and wider Environmental Quality department.

You will of course be supported in your work by the Team Leader- Freshwater & Coastal, Manager- Science & Technology and the Director- Environment Quality.

Mōu | About you

You will have a passion for the environment, and interest in working at the interface of science and policy. This role requires someone with a tertiary qualification in freshwater ecology/biology, or water chemistry. Relevant work experience in scientific monitoring techniques, data analysis and technical report writing for freshwater sciences is desired. Familiarity with the Resource Management Act (1991) and National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (2020) would also be advantageous.

The Council is a busy environment where you will need to be versatile, resourceful and have exceptional interpersonal and organisational skills. You should be able to demonstrate strong initiative and problem solving skills, which will be regularly tested in this role. A full driver’s licence is required.

To be successful in this role you will need to demonstrate the following:

• Ability to be flexible and agile in your practice to provide outcomes

• Proven interpersonal and conflict resolution skills

• Ability to manage multiple jobs

What’s on offer?

Taranaki Regional Council is a fantastic place to work! We have a great Freshwater & Coastal team. We are open to supporting you move to our region so definitely apply if you are looking to relocate from around NZ. We also have:

• An active social club (functions, supports socially positive initiatives, sports teams)

• Long service leave days

• Flexible working options (including WFH policies and flexitime)

• Induction programmes for every new employee

• Free car parking on site

• Training opportunities within each role

• A wide range of departments with the possibility to broaden your skillset over time

However, the best part is working alongside fantastic people who are truly dedicated to the Taranaki region.

Interested? Here’s how to apply

Apply using the link below, fill out your application form and add your CV and cover letter. Further details on the role can be found below on the Position Description link, or for any other questions please contact Tamsin Moala, People & Wellness Coordinator on (06) 765 7127.

All applications must be made directly through this website.

There is no closing date for this vacancy.  Applications will remain open until a successful candidate is appointed and we reserve the right to close this vacancy when we have received sufficient, suitable applications. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

To apply for this job, you must have the legal right to be able to work in New Zealand as we are currently not accredited to support applicants via the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).