Specialist Environment

OverviewJoin to apply for the Specialist Environment role at Rio Tinto.Join New Zealand Aluminium Smelters (NZAS) at Tiwai Point, Invercargill, where we produce some of the world's purest, low carbon aluminium.

Be part of building a bright future for our business, for Southland and for Aotearoa New Zealand.

Permanent role living in Southland with relocation assistance provided.

Competitive salary and benefits designed to make life better for you and your loved ones, including flexible working, Rio Tinto share scheme, Rio Discounts Program, contribution to medical costs, leave loading and more.

About The Role

Finding better ways to provide the materials the world needs.

We're on the hunt for a proven environmental professional ready to take on one of New Zealand's most unique and meaningful roles.

At NZAS, we don't just meet compliance—we set the standard.

As our Specialist Environment, you'll be a key part of a high-performing team, working on technically complex environmental challenges, and a vital part of our partnership with Ngai Tahu, co-designing a future where industry and environment thrive together.

This is a career-defining opportunity to contribute to an environmental strategy on a globally significant site, while contributing to the whenua and whanau of Murihiku.

What You'll Be Doing

Reporting to the Superintendent Environment, you'll work with the environment team to manage the environment portfolio at NZAS including compliance, assessments and improvement projects including progressive remediation

Engaging with Environment Southland (regulator) and other key stakeholders on site consents and environmental monitoring programmes and operational environment matters

Supporting the partnership with Ngai Tahu under a formal Memorandum of Understanding—embedding matauranga Maori in environmental practice

Provide SME guidance to internal stakeholders regarding existing and emerging environmental issues and risks

Supporting Operations to deliver smart, strategic improvements in air quality, water management, waste minimisation, and climate resilience

Investigate environmental incidents in accordance with regulatory requirements, community obligations, and corporate policies

Supporting site leadership with top-tier environmental advice and insight

What You'll Bring

Experience in complex industrial or manufacturing environments (ISO14001, consents, compliance systems etc.)

A track record of driving improvement by influencing across all levels of an organisation

Cultural competence and ideally hands-on experience working with Maori partners or within co-governance frameworks

Curiosity, courage, and a desire to do work that truly matters

Qualifications in Environmental Science, Engineering or a related field

Why NZAS?

Work with purpose – contribute to meaningful sustainability outcomes on a global stage

Partnership with heart – walk alongside Ngai Tahu in a respectful, collaborative way

Real leadership – this is a strategic role with genuine site-wide influence

Grow your career – we invest in people who invest in us

Live the lifestyle – world-class hiking, surfing, snowboarding and mountain biking on your doorstep

This role provides

Permanent opportunity based in Invercargill New Zealand – relocation assistance provided if required

Great opportunity to join a global mining organisation offering outstanding personal development and career opportunities

A safety-focused and inclusive working environment

A competitive salary package with annual cash incentive awards

Excellent retirement plan

A comprehensive leave policy that covers all moments that matter in life (vacation / annual, paid parental leave, short term sick leave, paid holidays)

Ongoing individual wellbeing support for you and your family for personal and professional matters

Generous Rio Tinto employee share program

Flexible working arrangements available

Where you'll be working

Rio Tinto Aluminium – Pacific Operations.

Rio Tinto is a global leader in aluminium, with large-scale operations across multiple sites and a portfolio that includes bauxite mines, refineries, smelters and a power station.

Invercargill, New Zealand is the location for this role, offering access to outdoor recreation and a vibrant community.

Application Details

Ready to lead where it counts?

Apply now and shape the future of environment and industry—together.

Applications close 30 / 09 / 2025.

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a leading global mining and materials company operating in 35 countries.

Our purpose is finding better ways to provide the materials the world needs, with a focus on low emissions and responsible governance.

We welcome diverse candidates and are committed to an inclusive environment where all voices are heard.

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