Biosecurity Advisor

At the Otago Regional Council (ORC), our mission is protecting, connecting and enhancing Otago's environment, now and for the future - Mou, moku, mo tatou, For you, for me, for us. To be sure we can deliver on our responsibilities, we are evolving as an organisation, and we're not overstating when we say we have some really big targets to reach. We need the right people, in the right roles, to help us to get there.

We think Otago's 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.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Biosecurity Advisor to join our passionate Environmental Delivery team, based in Dunedin. This is a full-time, permanent position (37.5 hours per week) focused on supporting proactive biosecurity outcomes to protect Otago's unique ecosystems and communities.

As a Biosecurity Advisor, you'll be at the forefront of regional surveillance and monitoring programmes for terrestrial, marine and freshwater pest species. Your responsibilities will include collecting and analysing high-quality pest and disease data, supporting early detection initiatives, contributing to risk assessments, producing GIS-based maps and reports, and collaborating with landowners, iwi, and community stakeholders.

You’ll play a critical role in enabling evidence-based, regionally coordinated biosecurity programmes - helping Otago stay ahead of emerging threats.

About You

Our ideal candidate will have :

• A tertiary qualification in ecology, conservation, biosecurity, or a related field.
• At least three years' experience in field monitoring, environmental data collection, or biosecurity.
• Strong knowledge of pest plants and animals, monitoring techniques, and the South Island's unique biodiversity.
• Technical skill using mobile data collection tools, GPS, mapping applications, and GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS).
• Outstanding attention to detail and the ability to follow and enhance technical protocols for data collection and analysis.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including landowners, iwi, and community partners.
• A passion for environmental protection and a fieldwork-ready attitude.

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 that we care, alongside us, regardless of their background.

To support our diverse and capable team, we're 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.

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