Northland Regional Council’s role is to care for and protect Te Taitokerau Northland's environment and communities. Does that resonate with you?  

Ko te aha ā mātou mahi?  / What work do we do? 

We work together with tangata whenua and communities to care for the incredible environment and many communities in our rohe, matching our skills and resources with the visions and aspirations of our people. We work to protect and restore healthy waters and our native taonga, through meaningful partnerships with tangata whenua and communities, and to build more resilient and adaptable communities in a changing climate. Here at Te Kaunihera ā rohe o Te Taitokerau | NRC, your mahi makes a real difference to our communities. 

Toitū te whenua, toitū te moana, toitū te tangata. If the land is well, if the sea is well, the people will thrive.     

Te āheinga / The opportunity 

Play a vital role in protecting Northland’s unique biodiversity by supporting wild animal control efforts across the region. This position contributes directly to the Wild Deer-Free Northland initiative, assisting in the planning and delivery of ungulate control operations that help preserve native forests, protect primary industries, and reduce the spread of diseases like kauri dieback. 

Your work will support contract teams in the field, helping ensure high standards are maintained. You will assist with investigations and incident responses, keeping accurate records and contributing to formal enforcement processes when needed. 

Collaboration is central to this role. You’ll work alongside DOC and other agencies to coordinate joint actions, contribute to educational outreach, and help build biosecurity partnerships. You’ll provide advice and help develop resources that raise awareness and encourage responsible behaviour. By supporting relationship-building with mana whenua, local communities, and deer farmers, you’ll help promote shared understanding and commitment to wild animal management across Northland. 

He kōrero mōu / About you 

The ideal candidate brings over five years of hands-on experience in biosecurity and pest management, backed by deep technical expertise in wild animal control—particularly in managing ungulate species like deer, pigs, and goats. You will also have the following: 

• Strong community engagement skills, with established networks across rural Northland and proven ability to liaise confidently with diverse stakeholders. 
• Comprehensive understanding of key legislation and policy, including the Biosecurity Act, Wild Animal Control Act, and the Northland Regional Pest Management and Marine Pathways Plan. 
• Experience using GIS mapping tools, ideally within pest management contexts. 
• Strong digital literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software platforms. 
• A relevant tertiary qualification is desirable but not essential 
• Current holder of a full driver’s licence. 
• Licensed firearms holder, with demonstrated knowledge of safe firearm use in pest management operations. 

Ko te aha ngā painga o te mahi kei konei? / What are the benefits of working here? 

Just as you care about your community and environment, NRC cares about you and your wellbeing. Our organisation celebrates collective efforts and achievements and recognises every individual for their contributions and dedication to their mahi.     

We understand the importance of flexibility, so we’re committed to alternative working arrangements for our staff. We offer a range of flexible work arrangements to suit our people’s varied lifestyles, commitments and cultural needs. 

Tono mai / Apply 

The mahi we do really makes a difference, so if you are motivated to help nurture our region’s taiao, we are keen to learn more about you. Want to have a kōrero with us first, or just need more information? If so, contact our Project Lead (Grant MacPherson (grantm@nrc.govt.nz). To view the job description, visit our careers site where the following link will work: JD: Biosecurity Officer - Wild Animal Control

Applications close on 22 September 2025

We review applications as they are received. Apply online now, as the close date may change. Please note that we do not accept email applications. 

Applicants for this position should have NZ residency/citizenship, or a valid NZ work visa.