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Specialist Adviser (Terrestrial & Aquatic Environments)
Specialist Adviser (Terrestrial & Aquatic Environments)Ministry for Primary Industries • Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
Specialist Adviser (Terrestrial & Aquatic Environments)

Specialist Adviser (Terrestrial & Aquatic Environments)

Ministry for Primary Industries • Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
4 hours ago
Job description

Specialist Adviser (Terrestrial & Aquatic Environments)

Join to apply for the Specialist Adviser (Terrestrial & Aquatic Environments) role at Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) .

Role type : Fixed term, 3 years | Location : Wellington City | Salary Range : $100,934 to $129,804, depending on skills and experience.

About the Role - Kōrero mō te Tūranga

Are you passionate about protecting Aotearoa New Zealand from biosecurity risks while supporting safe trade and travel? We’re looking for an experienced and motivated individual to join the Terrestrial & Aquatic Environment team within the Biosecurity Import and Export Standards.

This role is central to managing biosecurity risk at New Zealand's border. You'll help develop and maintain a wide range of standards that set clear requirements for goods and crafts entering the country, and for the facilities receiving those imported goods.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the development and review of import health standards (IHS) of various inanimate pathways.
  • Craft risk management standards (CRMSs), and facility standards (transitional and containment facilities).
  • Provide high‑quality, evidence‑based risk mitigation measures and peer‑review technical work.
  • Prepare advice and communication for industry stakeholders and international partners.
  • Lead projects and contribute to strategy and continuous improvement.
  • Engage directly with trading partners, government agencies and other stakeholders.
  • Support and mentor colleagues to build team capability.

About You – Mōu

You are a curious and analytical thinker with a passion for protecting New Zealand's biosecurity, with a strong ability to interpret complex information and translate it into clear, actionable advice. You thrive in evolving environments and are confident working collaboratively across teams and with external stakeholders.

Qualifications

  • A tertiary qualification in a relevant area such as biology, microbiology, environmental science.
  • Experience in biosecurity, risk analysis, regulatory systems, or a similar field.
  • A collaborative and curious mindset.
  • Resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
  • The ability to use initiative and perform in an often‑ambiguous environment.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills with a proven ability to adapt quickly to meet audience needs.
  • The ability to see the big picture while delivering practical outcomes.
  • Proven experience in developing positive relationships with internal and external customers and stakeholders across a large, complex business environment.
  • Confidence in leading technical work and stakeholder engagement.
  • Proven project management, planning, and organisational skills.
  • Experience participating in strategic planning.

    • About the Team

    You’ll be part of a welcoming team that works across science, policy, and regulation to support New Zealand's biosecurity system. Together, we shape and maintain standards, including IHSs, CRMSs, and facility standards, that are practical, transparent, and evidence based.

    We work closely with industry and trading partners to make sure standards are workable and support New Zealand's economy, environment, and communities.

    You’ll find opportunities to develop your skills, lead meaningful work, and contribute to something that matters.

    About MPI – Mō Te Manatū Ahu Matua

    The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) partners with New Zealand's food and fibre sector to be the world's most trusted provider of high‑value food and fibre products.

    Benefits of Working at MPI – Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Ahu Matua

  • Additional MPI leave days.
  • Annual Wellness payment.
  • Bi‑annual paid eye test and contribution to the costs of corrective lenses / frames.

    • Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi

    We are committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, which includes working closely with iwi, hapū, whānau and hāpori.

    We aspire to reflect the diverse communities we serve, so we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, and identities. As an organisation, we are committed to making Manatū Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries a great place to work for all.

    How to Apply

    In your cover letter, we’d like to know about you, your values; your interest and motivations for this role; the abilities, strengths, personal attributes and diverse perspectives you will bring to the role and this organisation, which may have also been gained outside of the workforce.

    To view the position description and / or apply online, please click “Apply” or visit the MPI Careers Site.

    Applications close at midnight on Sunday 30 November .

    For any questions about the role, please email

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    Adviser • Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand