Senior Plant Pathogens Advisor

• Help protect Auckland’s native ecosystems from kauri dieback and plant pathogens
• Combine science, fieldwork and stakeholder engagement in a purpose-driven role
• Work with mana whenua, researchers and communities across Tāmaki Makaurau
• Fixed Term opportunity (early August 2026 - 3rd September 2027)

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Auckland Council’s Environmental Services department has a Fixed Term opportunity (early August 2026 - 3rd September 2027) for a Senior Plant Pathogens Advisor within the Plant Pathogens team.

This is a unique opportunity to play a critical role in protecting Auckland’s native ecosystems and biodiversity, particularly through the management of kauri dieback and other emerging plant pathogens.

We’re looking for someone with strong scientific capability and real-world experience in plant pathogens, biosecurity, biodiversity or conservation-related environments; someone who can combine technical expertise with strong relationship-building skills and practical delivery.

This role is far more than desk-based science. You’ll work closely with mana whenua, community groups, researchers, operational teams and external agencies to help shape and deliver best-practice pathogen management programmes across Tāmaki Makaurau.

You’ll help lead work that directly contributes to the protection of some of Auckland’s most significant natural environments, while supporting research, treatment programmes, surveillance activities, and cross-council collaboration.

This is a highly specialised and niche role, suited to someone who is passionate about applied environmental science, enjoys working collaboratively, and can confidently translate technical information into practical advice for a wide range of audiences.

Day-to-day you could expect to work on:

• Providing specialist technical advice relating to kauri dieback and plant pathogen management 
• Supporting surveillance, treatment, research and pathway management programmes across Auckland 
• Working alongside mana whenua, landowners, community groups, researchers and operational teams to deliver biodiversity outcomes 
• Leading or contributing to best-practice processes, standard operating procedures and cross-agency collaboration 
• Mentoring team members and supporting the Team Manager with technical leadership and programme delivery

He kōrero mōu: About you

This role requires significant experience in biosecurity, biodiversity, conservation or plant pathogen management, along with the ability to operate confidently across both scientific and community-focused environments.

We are looking for someone who brings a strong scientific foundation, but who is equally comfortable building trusted relationships, collaborating with others, and contributing positively within a close-knit team.

We are looking for someone with:

• A degree in ecology, biosecurity or a related field, or equivalent industry experience within the biosecurity sector 
• At least 7 years’ experience within biodiversity, biosecurity, conservation or plant pathogen-related environments 
• Strong understanding of plant pathogen management, particularly kauri dieback or similar biosecurity threats 
• Excellent relationship management and communication skills, including experience working with mana whenua, community groups, researchers or landowners 
• A full, clean NZ driver’s licence 

Nice to have:

• Experience managing kauri dieback or other plant pathogens directly 
• Experience working within Māori frameworks or alongside Māori communities 
• Experience supporting research or treatment programmes within environmental science or biosecurity settings 
• Knowledge of regional pest management or biosecurity legislation 

This role would suit someone who is naturally curious, collaborative and solutions-focused; someone who enjoys balancing science, field delivery, stakeholder engagement and strategic thinking.

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: 
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HCrGnm_Fy1RMrhSkvVZaf3GPtZDk3BLd/view?usp=sharing

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: Tuesday 9th June 2026

Please note: 

• Qualification Checks will be conducted along with other relevant pre-employment checks required for employment with Auckland Council.
• Safety Sensitive: This role is deemed safety sensitive and, in line with Auckland Council policy, you will be required to complete pre-employment drug & alcohol testing.

Our employer Kiwisaver contribution is additional to base salary offered.

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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