Environmental Scientist – Coastal Ecology

Thriving together- mo te taiao, mo nga tangata.

Our environment and our people go hand-in-hand.

This role is full-time, but we are open to considering applicants who wish to work part-time minimum 0.8 FTE.

Tauranga or Whakatane based.

Are you passionate about coastal and marine environments and the science that explores and protects them?

We're looking for an Environmental Scientist to join our Science Team working across estuaries, harbours, dune systems and coastal wetlands in the Bay of Plenty.

This is your chance to apply your ecological knowledge, analytical skills and curiosity to meaningful work that supports biodiversity, restoration and marine policy outcomes.

We work in partnership with other council teams, iwi, communities and researchers to support thriving coastal ecosystems – and we're looking for someone who shares that commitment.

Te ahuatunga a te turanga | About the role

Our team leads coastal and near-shore marine ecology monitoring and research to support a range of Council functions – including environmental reporting, coastal policy, resource consenting, and the protection of coastal biodiversity.

This is a unique opportunity to work at the interface of coastal science, policy and community engagement in a region rich in ecological diversity and cultural significance.

You'll play a key role in monitoring and understanding change in coastal environments, supporting regional aquaculture development, and supporting our teams and partners to make informed decisions about management and restoration.

You'll be part of a supportive, collaborative team of environmental professionals that takes pride in the quality and usefulness of our work.

In this role, you will :

Design and carry out field investigations and monitoring in coastal and near-shore habitats

Lead or contribute to technical projects and state of environment reporting

Analyse ecological data using R, spatial tools, and statistical modelling approaches

Build and maintain partnerships and engagement with iwi and community groups

Review consent applications, compliance reports, and advise on ecological impacts

Provide science advice to support planning, restoration and protection

Work closely with other scientists across freshwater, land and climate domains

Communicate your findings through reports, maps, presentations and social media

Keep up with emerging research and methods, and apply it to local issues

Work collaboratively with the Senior Environmental Scientist – Coastal Ecology

O pumanawa | Your skills and experience

Tertiary qualification in ecology, marine science or coastal environmental science (BSc or higher)

Experience in coastal / marine ecological monitoring, analysis and reporting

Great communication skills and the ability to work in partnership with others

A proactive, collaborative approach to problem-solving and team working

Fieldwork experience in coastal, marine and estuarine systems

Confidence in a statistical programming language (e.g.

R / Python), remote sensing methods and spatial analysis (e.g.

ArcPro / GIS)

Knowledge of aquaculture policy and management desirable

Ko wai matou | Who we are

Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council is responsible for land, air and water as well as public transport and economic development.

A major focus of our work involves looking after the environment.

We manage the effects of people's use of freshwater, land, air and coastal water.

However, we also have a broader responsibility with others for the economic, social and cultural well-being of the regional community.

You'll be joining the

Science Team

in the Strategy & Science Group.

You'll work alongside a collaborative, science-led team that values curiosity, creativity and collective impact.

We manage environmental challenges and opportunities with a strong focus on collaboration, science and long-term thinking.

Our team specialises in coastal and freshwater science, monitoring, research and reporting.

We're known for delivering high-quality, regionally relevant science and advice, and for working in partnership with other Council teams, iwi, stakeholders and other researchers to make a difference for our environment and communities.

Te Ahurea |

The Culture

Guided by Toi Moana's values, our team works with purpose and professionalism to deliver meaningful environmental outcomes.

We lead with respect and strength, collaborate across teams, and value the relationships that underpin our success.

With a strong team spirit and a commitment to supporting one another, we take pride in work that contributes to a thriving environment and resilient communities — mo te taiao, mo nga tangata.

Nga Painga |The Benefits

Join a Regional Council that is often leading the sector in the work we deliver, and an active regional sector network of marine science practitioners across the 15 of the Regional and Unitary Authorities.

You will be part of a regional council science community with well established relationships with the Ministry for the Environment, Department of Conservation and Fisheries NZ and collective knowledge that supports your mahi.

We offer a platform for you to develop your skills and expertise, grow your professional network, and participate in national science conversations.

At Toi Moana we offer :

Competitive remuneration package including additional council leave over Christmas holidays

Employer paid life and income protection insurance

Flexible working policy including up to two days per week remote working

Attractive, spacious offices enabling connection across the region

Workplace wellbeing initiativesand an Employee Assistance Programme

In-house professional development opportunities, leadership and cultural training

Staff social clubs at each office

Me pehea te tuku tono

How to Apply

Click APPLY NOW to submit your application and CV.

To access a copy of Te Turanga Mahi(Job Description) please click on the following link or copy and pasteit into your web browser :

NB : To apply for this job, you must have the legal right to be able to work in New Zealand and also a current, valid driver's licence.

As this position is designated as being "safety sensitive", the successful candidate will be asked to undergo a pre-employment drug and alcohol check as part of the recruitment.

Applications close 5pm, Sunday 10 August 2025and will only be accepted online.

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