Senior Environmental Specialist (Seabirds)

About the Role

We seek a dedicated and knowledgeable Senior Environmental Specialist with a focus on seabirds to join the Environmental Evaluation and Monitoring Unit. This role centers on leading seabird fieldwork within Auckland's diverse environments to contribute significantly to local biodiversity protection.

Position Details

• Employment Term: October 2026 to February 2027
• Weekly Hours: 40 hours
• Compensation: $51 per hour plus 8% holiday pay
• Work Location: Main office in Auckland City Centre with field assignments throughout the Auckland region, including remote sites and pest-free islands

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct field operations for the Seabird Monitoring and Research Programme.
• Coordinate logistics across monitoring locations, ensuring smooth access and functioning in remote and island environments.
• Obtain all essential permits and approvals required for conducting fieldwork effectively.
• Perform hands-on monitoring activities such as seabird handling, banding, and biological sample collection.
• Maintain strict compliance with biosecurity, health, and safety protocols.
• Process data collected during fieldwork, validate it, and manage relevant databases.
• Support data examination, interpretation, and the creation of detailed reports.

Candidate Profile and Eligibility

• Holds a Bachelor's degree in ecology, environmental science, or a relevant discipline, or possesses equivalent applicable experience.
• Experienced in seabird research, including direct handling of birds.
• Holds a valid Department of Conservation Bird Banding Permit L2+ for small to medium seabirds.
• Physically fit to work in varying terrains and weather, capable of extended backpack trekking.
• Proven track record managing field expeditions in remote settings.
• Outstanding organizational and interpersonal skills, with a cooperative approach towards engagement with diverse stakeholders including iwi and landowners.
• Possesses a full and clean driver's license.
• Able to undergo and pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening due to the safety-sensitive nature of this position.
• Prepared for occasional overnight stays on remote islands as part of the job requirements.

Additional Information

The role is full-time with a 40-hour workweek and offers an opportunity to make a meaningful environmental impact. The deadline to submit applications is 30 July. Commitment to diversity and equal employment opportunity is strongly upheld by the employer.