Senior Ecological Specialist

• Balance ecology with operations to restore and protect Auckland’s parks
• Use your ecology expertise and business acumen to protect local biodiversity
• Drive ecological outcomes and engage with communities and stakeholders across Auckland

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Parks & Community Facilities (PCF) is dedicated to making great places Aucklanders love by supporting a wide range of services such as asset maintenance, management and renewals of Parks, Open Spaces, Buildings, Facilities, Conservation Areas, and Urban Ngahere (forest). As kaitiaki (guardian) of Auckland Council facilities, we play a vital role in promoting the wellbeing of our communities and environment while delivering strategically significant programmes.

As Senior Ecological Specialist, you’ll work as part of a strategic, collaborative team to coordinate the control of animal and pest plant management and planting through ecological contracts, including the management and restoration of indigenous biodiversity and threatened species. You’ll provide ecological expertise in the protection and restoration of indigenous ecosystems, while also contributing to how we operate more broadly as a parks business with a regional perspective.

You’ll monitor operational programmes and manage the portfolio of contracted works related to ecological assets on local park land. Key responsibilities include oversight of ecological restoration works, collaboration with contractors to achieve desired outcomes, and driving efficiency and productivity. You’ll also play an important role in engaging with elected members, local boards, and the public, writing clear reports and updates, and managing financial processes and correspondence effectively.

Your ability to balance ecological expertise with operational, strategic, and political awareness, and to work collaboratively with other ecologically focused departments, will be critical to your success. You will apply systems thinking to help shape ecological programmes across the parks network, ensuring outcomes are coordinated, efficient, and aligned with regional priorities.

He kōrero mōu: About you

A subject matter expert in ecological restoration and pest plant and animal control, you are passionate about maintaining the integrity of local ecosystems. With experience in the delivery of ecological restoration, you are adept at guiding contractors to deliver the best ecological outcomes, while also demonstrating the ability to influence and partner effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

Along with strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, you will have contract management experience, including the ability to audit ecological works and oversee budget spend. You’ll be confident communicating both orally and in writing—and able to adjust your approach depending on the audience and political context.

We’re looking for someone who brings not only ecological knowledge but also operational awareness, strategic thinking, and systems-level insight. You’ll be comfortable working in hybrid ways, equally autonomous and collaborative, visible across the region, situationally aware, and responsive to the needs of both the team and the wider business. Your mix of field knowledge, business acumen, writing, analytical skills, and strategic judgment will ensure you can contribute at both operational and strategic levels.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

You’ll be joining a team of diverse, dedicated, and respected experts working collaboratively across the region, passionate about delivering tangible results for the community and future generations.

We have a culture built on trust, shared responsibility, and valuing both individual and collective contributions. Working 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, you will have some flexibility with how those hours are set.

In return for your hard work, you can expect a flexible and supportive work environment. Ehara taku toa, he takitahi, he toa takitini – My success is not mine alone, but the success of many.

Apply today (telling us why you are interested in and right for this opportunity) by cover letter along with your CV. 

Please use this link to view a copy of the position description.

Applications close Tuesday, 7th October 2025

You will be required to have a valid NZ driver’s licence due to the nature of the position where you will be required to travel.

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.