Specialist Adviser - Animal Health and Biosecurity

About the Role

This permanent, full-time position based in Wellington involves applying your specialist knowledge in animal health or biological sciences to ensure the safe importation of animals and animal products into New Zealand. You'll lead technically on complex biosecurity issues, advise on regulatory approvals, and contribute to consistent decision-making within animal import approvals and advice systems. This role offers a supportive team culture and an excellent balance between work and personal life.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical leadership on imports of animals and animal products that pose biosecurity challenges.
• Conduct thorough reviews of approvals and provide specialist biosecurity advice.
• Mentor team members and enhance overall team capabilities.
• Develop and maintain trusted working relationships with various stakeholders.
• Lead and promote initiatives to improve processes and outcomes continuously.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate possesses strong scientific judgement and thrives in resolving complex technical issues while balancing diverse stakeholder priorities. You may be a qualified veterinarian, animal health professional, or specialist in biological sciences keen to apply expertise in a regulatory setting. Clear communication and the ability to influence and support colleagues to achieve high-quality results are essential.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• A relevant tertiary degree in veterinary science or biological sciences.
• At least five years of technical or professional experience at a senior adviser or analyst level within the biosecurity sector.
• Proven skills in technical analysis and decision making.
• Capability to articulate complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Experience in developing trusted relationships with stakeholders.
• A passion for mentorship and fostering others’ professional growth.

Additional Information

The role is based within the Animal and Plant Approvals and Advice team, part of Biosecurity New Zealand's Import and Export Standards Directorate. The team delivers technical advice, approvals, and regulatory services supporting safe trade while protecting New Zealand's biosecurity system. Working here means joining a collaborative environment valuing knowledge sharing, continuous improvement, and delivering excellent customer and stakeholder outcomes.

The Ministry for Primary Industries strives to partner with New Zealand’s food and fibre sectors for sustainability and product excellence. This role aligns with supporting sector productivity, biosecurity, and food safety.

Benefits

• Additional MPI leave days.
• Annual wellness payment.
• Paid eye tests every two years and contributions towards corrective lenses or frames.

Security Clearance Requirements

• This position requires a CONFIDENTIAL New Zealand national security clearance.
• Applicants must be New Zealand citizens or holders of a New Zealand residence-class visa (including permanent residence).
• A verifiable, continuous five-year background history is required for assessment by the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS).

Equity and Inclusion

The ministry is committed to partnership under Te Tiriti o Waitangi and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and identities, aiming to reflect the communities it serves. Applicants are encouraged to share their values, identity, whakapapa, motivations, strengths, and unique perspectives in their application.

Application Details

The application deadline is 11:59 PM Monday 17th August. Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it. For inquiries, the contact email is provided within the organization.