Senior Ecologist

• Fixed term Full-Time position (till 19/02/2027)
• Use your expertise to influence and inform decision-makers and operational programs, support others and achieve great outcomes for Auckland’s environment
• Influence change and protect Auckland’s unique indigenous biodiversity

He angitūtanga: The opportunity 
We have an exciting opportunity within our Ecological Advice team!
 
This is your opportunity to be at the forefront of helping achieve a flourishing and protected natural environment for Auckland! This is to cover parental leave, running till 19/02/2027.

Our team provide expert ecological and geological features advice and support across council including to resource consents, policy, parks management, and biosecurity and biodiversity programmes.  We also manage our own projects to achieve the protection and restoration of indigenous ecosystems, species, and natural features on public and private land.
 
This senior role has a focus on mentoring and providing expert ecological advice to support councils resource consent, compliance, and monitoring teams.  You will also use your practical experience to support policy development and best practice guidance as part of the team’s important advisory roles regarding the Auckland Unitary Plan, NPS-FM and recently gazetted NPS-IB.  Our departments large and varied environmental programmes also provide opportunity to use and grow your leadership and expertise in biosecurity management and restoration.
 
Please note: This position is labelled a Safety Sensitive role - a Drug and Alcohol test will be conducted prior to offer.
 
He kōrero mōu: About you
With 5-7 years’ terrestrial ecology experience we are looking for someone who wants a role with variety from informing and influencing decision makers to delivering your own projects. As a senior you will support and mentor others in the team and department, be relied on to look to solutions and take the lead on challenging issues or projects.
 
We are looking for an ecologist with experience leading the delivery and reporting of terrestrial ecological survey and effects assessments within the Resource Management Act. Attendance at hearings and/or Environment Court will be particularly valued.
 
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
You will enjoy being part of our expert, committed and capable Environmental Services team. Our priority is providing the best possible working environment for our staff which includes a focus on employee wellbeing and career progression opportunities. Joining Environmental Services will provide you with the opportunity to work across the whole council family, with our mana whenua partners, community groups, private landowners, schools, non-government organisations and central government to support best practice conservation practices and outcomes.

This is a once in a career opportunity to be part of an exciting programme of work which will improve Auckland’s precious natural environment for current and future generations.  
 
Auckland Council is one of the largest local authorities in the South Pacific providing essential services and facilities to more than 1.7 million people. We are committed to environmental action and green growth to achieve our vision of becoming the world’s most liveable city. 

 
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.
 
You’ll also have access to a range of fantastic Auckland Council benefits, including discounted Leisure Centre membership and a range of other partnership discounts!
 
If you have the required experience and passion, then we want to hear from you!
 
Tono Mai: Apply Now!
 
Applications close: Sunday 15th February 2026
Please find the job description here
 
Please note: 

• Qualification Checks will be conducted along with other relevant pre-employment checks required for employment with Auckland Council.
• This role is deemed safety sensitive and, in line with Auckland Council policy, you will be required to complete pre-employment drug & alcohol testing - unless you have passed one within a year ago.
• You must hold a full and clean NZ Drivers’ license.

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.
 
Employees in receipt of salary protection and/or on the predecessor Council terms and conditions of employment, please note that the salary protection and/or predecessor Council terms and conditions, including relocation, apply to your current position. Should you change to a new position (other than any secondment) you will be issued with a new employment letter of offer with current Auckland Council terms and conditions.
 

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