Freshwater Ambassador

At the Otago Regional Council (ORC), our mission is to protect and enhance the environment and enable our communities to do the same. To be sure we can deliver on our responsibilities, we are evolving as an organisation and we need the right people in the right roles to help us achieve our targets.

We think Otago is a pretty special place. It covers a vast area – the third largest local government region in New Zealand. Those who call Otago home enjoy access to mountains, coastal lowlands, dramatic rivers and wild beaches. Our environment here is part of who we are, and at ORC we work each day to look after it.

Opportunity

We are looking for two Freshwater Ambassadors to join our Environmental Implementation team on a fixed‑term, full‑time basis over the summer (November to February) in Central Otago. This role will involve working on weekends and select public holidays, with a working week of Wednesday to Sunday.

The purpose of this position is to raise public awareness of freshwater pests—including Didymo, Lagarosiphon, Lake Snow and Freshwater Gold Clam—and the actions required to minimise their spread as part of the national Check, Clean, Dry campaign, led by the Ministry for Primary Industries.

Responsibilities

• Survey freshwater users for the Ministry for Primary Industries to better understand knowledge of freshwater pests and encourage the use of procedures.
• Issue and communicate Didymo, Lagarosiphon, Lake Snow, Freshwater Gold Clam and other freshwater pest awareness information to members of the public.
• Issue and communicate collateral provided to people who own or are using on‑water craft (i.e. paddle craft, boat, jet ski).
• Promote a safe and environmentally sound working environment and a culture of safe and responsible behaviours and attitudes.
• Support event organisers and volunteers at sports events. Set up wash stations and provide collateral to organisers and competitors.

Qualifications

What We Offer

We recognise and celebrate diversity within Team ORC and are committed to providing a work environment that supports inclusion and equal opportunities. We actively encourage applications from anyone who will live our values of MANA – We influence with respect and integrity, TIKA – We do the right thing and do things right, and AROHA – We show that we care.

To support our diverse and capable team, we are pleased to offer enhanced benefits such as :

How To Apply

If you meet the above criteria, we welcome your application, including your CV and cover letter outlining why you are the person for this role via the Apply button.

Please note. We don't always work to fixed closing dates and may start considering and interviewing candidates as their applications are received, so we encourage you to apply early.

All candidates require the right to work in New Zealand.

Applications close 12 October 2025.

For further information, please contact

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