Senior Bio Information Analyst - Ecological Data & Significant Natural Areas

•    Lead the management and analysis of ecological and Significant Natural Area datasets
•    Use spatial data and remote sensing to support evidence-based environmental decision-making
•    Influence how ecological information supports planning, policy and environmental protection outcomes

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Auckland Council's Environmental Services department has an opportunity for a Senior Bio Information Analyst to join our Bio Information Team.

This role focuses on the management, analysis and continuous improvement of ecological information that supports biodiversity protection, environmental planning and Significant Natural Area (SNA) programmes across Tāmaki Makaurau.

Working alongside ecologists, planners and technical specialists, you'll help ensure environmental data is robust, accessible and fit for purpose. You'll take a leading role in maintaining key ecological datasets, providing specialist spatial analysis and developing innovative approaches to environmental data capture, classification and reporting.

This is an opportunity to influence how ecological evidence is used to inform environmental policy, planning decisions and long-term biodiversity outcomes for Auckland.

Please note: The official title for this position is Senior Bio Information Analyst. We've included Ecological Data & Significant Natural Areas in the advertised title to reflect the primary focus areas of this vacancy.

Day-to-day you could expect to:

•    Lead the management and maintenance of SNA, ecosystem and ecological datasets.
•    Undertake spatial data reviews and quality assurance to support environmental decision-making.
•    Develop and improve ecological data capture, classification and analysis methodologies.
•    Apply remote sensing and image analysis techniques to support ecological assessment and monitoring.
•    Deliver specialist GIS, mapping and reporting services for environmental programmes and projects.
•    Mentor others in spatial data methodologies

He kōrero mōu: About you

You'll bring a strong understanding of environmental information management and enjoy turning complex ecological data into meaningful insights that support real-world environmental outcomes.

You are naturally curious, analytical and collaborative, with the confidence to provide expert technical advice while helping others build their capability.

Our must-haves:

•    A relevant Bachelor’s degree in an environmental discipline, natural sciences or computer science, together with 7+ years’ relevant professional experience.
•    Strong knowledge of natural sciences, ideally New Zealand ecology, and experience working with environmental information.
•    Proven experience developing and implementing information, database, geospatial or data-support solutions.
•    Advanced capability in ESRI ArcGIS/spatial mapping and/or database design and management, with strong Microsoft Office skills and experience using relevant ecological analysis software.
•    A full NZ driver’s licence, along with the communication, initiative, relationship-building and resilience to operate confidently in a complex, collaborative environment.

Nice to haves:

•    A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline.
•    Experience with ecological surveys and assessing the significance of natural areas.
•    Knowledge of SQL database design and functionality in an environmental management context.
•    Experience specifically across biodiversity, biosecurity or geological information.
•    Experience mentoring other analysts or leading technical work, projects or information initiatives.

Most importantly, we're looking for someone who is passionate about the role environmental information plays in protecting and managing Auckland's natural environment. You’ll ideally have experience working with SNA and ecosystem datasets, regional or local plan mapping, remote sensing and image analysis, and an understanding of the RMA and planning system transformation will be highly valued.

You’ll also bring an appreciation of Te Ao Māori and tikanga, and a willingness to continue developing your confidence and capability in te reo Māori and our Treaty responsiveness journey.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

Auckland Council is the largest local government council across Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people and contributing towards making Tāmaki Makaurau a world-class city.
 
We offer a range of employee benefits and proudly support flexible working options where possible. 

You’ll have access to a range of fantastic Auckland Council benefits, EAP services, an Oranga Day and discounted Leisure Centre membership and a range of other partnership discounts! View a snapshot of some of our employee benefits here: 

We are a diverse organisation – we value diversity in our thinking, and we can only achieve that with a diverse team!

Ehara taku toa, he takitahi, he toa takitini - My success is not mine alone, but the success of many.

Tono Mai: Apply Now!

You can find the position description here
Applications close: Wednesday 7th October

Please note: Qualification Checks will be conducted along with other relevant pre-employment checks required for employment with Auckland Council.

Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

Auckland Council is committed to protecting your privacy in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020. We collect personal information directly from you and, where relevant for the purpose of assessing you for employment, and employing you as part of the transport reform process, from third parties such as referees, previous employers (including Auckland Transport) recruitment agencies, and background checking providers.

By applying for this role, you consent to Council obtaining a reference from your current employer, including information about any active conduct investigations and current performance management processes, if you are the preferred candidate. Reference checks will only be undertaken at the preferred candidate stage. Any non-active performance or conduct matters may also be discussed with referees as part of the reference checking process.

If you do not consent to this information being provided, Council may be unable to properly assess your application and your application will not progress further. If you wish to withhold your consent, or to access or correct your personal information, please contact the Privacy Officer at privacy@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.

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