Specialist Adviser Agricultural Chemicals
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI)
Wellington, Wellington Region, New Zealand · Full Time
Be the first to apply
- Experience
- Any
- Salary
- NZD 121,764 – NZD 163,227 / year
- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 2 hours ago
- Work mode
- In office
- Education
- Relevant tertiary qualification in agriculture, horticulture, plant science, chemistry, or a related discipline
- Eligibility
- Open to candidates based in New Zealand or overseas who have or can obtain the legal right to work in New Zealand.
- Resume
- Required to apply
Where you'll work
Job description
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced scientific specialist to join the Agricultural Chemicals team within the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (ACVM) directorate at New Zealand Food Safety. This permanent full-time position is based in Wellington City and offers an opportunity to impact agricultural innovation, food production, and environmental outcomes nationally. The role involves contributing to science-based regulatory decisions supporting sustainable food and fibre production alongside a skilled multidisciplinary team.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead detailed scientific evaluations of new agricultural chemical applications.
- Assess efficacy, plant safety, chemical residues, as well as chemistry and manufacturing data, preparing comprehensive regulatory reports.
- Provide expert advice on complex or precedent-setting scientific matters.
- Conduct peer reviews of scientific assessments to ensure quality, consistency, and rigor.
- Support the development of regulatory standards, guidance, and systems.
- Mentor and develop technical capabilities within the team.
- Engage with industry stakeholders, international regulators, and other relevant parties.
- Participate in cross-functional projects and strategic initiatives regarding emerging agricultural issues.
Who You Are
You are a science or technical professional with a solid background in agricultural chemicals or related scientific or regulatory fields. You excel in applying scientific knowledge to regulatory decision-making involving complex or dynamic information. You have strong analytical abilities, good judgement, and can clearly communicate technical details in an accessible manner.
Requirements
- A relevant tertiary qualification in agriculture, horticulture, plant science, chemistry, or a related discipline.
- Sound understanding of risk management and regulatory frameworks such as the ACVM Act.
- Extensive regulatory and technical expertise in chemistry, residues, efficacy, or plant safety.
- Experience handling complex, novel, or high-risk product assessments.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for translating technical content into practical advice.
- Proven ability to mentor and support colleagues.
- Strong organisational skills with the capacity to balance multiple priorities effectively.
About the Team
The Agricultural Chemicals team consists of respected scientists and regulatory specialists with expertise spanning key areas including chemistry, residues, efficacy, plant safety, and risk assessment. The team fosters collaboration, robust peer review, and continuous professional development to maintain scientific excellence.
About MPI
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is dedicated to enhancing New Zealand's primary sectors' prosperity while respecting guardianship of natural resources. MPI offers benefits such as additional leave days, the option to purchase extra annual leave, and paid eye tests with contributions towards corrective eyewear.
Additional Information
- Salary range: NZD 121,764 to 163,227 per annum, depending on experience and skills.
- This role is open to both New Zealand-based and international candidates possessing or eligible for the right to work in New Zealand.
- Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday 19 August 2026.
- Applicants are encouraged to describe their values, motivations, strengths, and diverse perspectives in their cover letter.