Ecologist / Senior Ecologist

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PDP are looking for an experienced ecologist to join our growing team. You will work alongside specialists in ecology, land, and water resources, contributing to a wide range of environmental projects across Aotearoa. Our work supports clients in managing ecological impacts and improving environmental outcomes.

This role is suited to someone with expertise in freshwater or terrestrial ecosystems, and experience across different project types. While the position is based in Christchurch, we are open to other South Island locations for the right candidate.

About the role

We are looking for a talented terrestrial (botany or herpetology) and / or freshwater (lake and river) ecologist. The role will vary depending on your field of expertise and level of experience but will involve providing technical advice and solutions across a wide range of environmental projects, including :

Manage ecology projects by co-ordinating employees, liaising with clients and stakeholders, and organising budgets.

Lead and coordinate field surveys of terrestrial habitats, and indigenous fauna (lizards, birds and / or bats) and flora (wetlands, forests, and / or drylands).

Lead monitoring of water quality and aquatic ecosystems (habitat, periphyton, macroinvertebrates and fish).

Prepare site enhancement plans for streams, wetlands and / or terrestrial environments.

Undertake salvage and translocations of native fauna (e.g., lizards and fish).

Analyse datasets, assess environmental impacts, and write and review technical reports.

Develop and implement business development strategies, prepare proposals, and attend conferences.

The role offers the opportunity to travel and visit different project sites and offices around Aotearoa, therefore overnight stays may sometimes be required. Full or part-time employment will be considered for the right candidate.

What you’ll bring

Using our Ecology Team’s passion and diverse skill set, we aim to deliver quality work to our clients. The ideal candidate will have the following :

An environmental degree, preferably in Ecology, from a well-recognised university.

2+ years’ experience (Ecologist) or 5+ years (Senior Ecologist) working in consulting, local / regional authority, or research organisation.

Experience in ecological field techniques for either botany and herpetology, or freshwater surveys.

Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Excellent organisational skills.

Creative thinking to find innovative and sound solutions for our clients.

A collegial, team-player with a ’can do’ attitude.

What we offer

A comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, income protection, salary top up for parental leave and the ability to purchase extra annual leave.

Flexible / hybrid working culture, facilitating a healthy work-life balance.

Professional development opportunities, including support for ongoing training and education, and fully subsidised membership fees.

The chance to work on meaningful projects that make a difference to our environment.

A vibrant environment, committed to fostering a workplace that embraces diversity and inclusion.

About Us

PDP is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading environmental science, engineering, and advisory consultancies. We care deeply about our environment and aspire to work in ways that meet today’s needs while providing for future generations.

Our team of experts deliver a range of innovative solutions that support our clients’ environmental challenges. We cover everything from air and land to water-related projects.

We take pride in being an employee-owned and operated company with nearly 40 years of experience operating in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. Our solutions consistently exceed client expectations, leading to significant, meaningful environmental outcomes for our clients.

How to apply

Excited candidates should submit their resume and cover letter outlining both their experience and qualifications to (emailprotected) . Please include the job title as the subject line. We look forward to reviewing your application and welcoming talent to our ever-growing team!

If you have any further questions about the role please send them through to (emailprotected) or feel free to look through our website to better understand the diverse range of projects and services here at PDP.

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