At the Otago Regional Council (ORC), our mission is to protect and enhance the environment and enable our communities to do the same. To be sure we can deliver on our responsibilities, we are evolving as an organisation, and we're not overstating when we say we have some really big targets to reach. We need the right people, in the right roles, to help us to get there.
We think Otago's a pretty special place. It covers a vast area - the third largest local government region in New Zealand. Those who call Otago home enjoy access to mountains, coastal lowlands, dramatic rivers, and wild beaches. Our environment here is part of who we are, and at ORC, we work each day to look after it.
The Opportunity
Our Science team at the Otago Regional Council is looking for a Principal Scientist to join the team on a full-time (37.5 hours per week), permanent basis in our busy Dunedin office.
This is a new position which will enable an experienced and astute scientist to have a significant influence over the direction, rigour, and agility of ORC's science programme over the coming decade. The purpose of this position is to lead and oversee Otago Regional Council's science advice, collaborations and, in tandem with the Manager Science, deliver strategic and operational science outcomes in order to facilitate sustainable development for the Otago region.
As a Principal Scientist, you will be responsible for:

• Providing specialist environmental, scientific, and technical advice within the team, group, and organisation, resulting in the effective management of natural and physical resources within Otago.
• Peer reviewing of scientific information/advice and checking it is fit for purpose.
• Regularly present complex reports on technical issues in a simple way to the public, industry groups, public hearings, Environment Court, Council committees, staff, and other stakeholders.
• Managing the design, implementation, budgeting, reporting, and monitoring of a wide variety of complex and environmental investigation projects.
• Helping develop staff across the Science Team, to create a high performing group that delivers science excellence and outcomes that support science strategy.
• Working closely with the Manager Science to ensure strategic direction of science across the organisation aligns with organisational needs.

If you are interested in leading science advice and working collaboratively in the Otago Region, then this is the role for you!
About You
Our ideal candidate will have:

• A Ph D, or a technical master's degree with significant research experience in area of relevance to Otago Regional Council is essential.
• 10+ years' experience in Environmental Science, with 5 years in a technical leadership role. and relationship management in complex political or outcome focused environments.
• Experience in developing excellent relationship management skills and well-developed collaborative influencing and negotiating skills.
• Proven record as a conceptual and innovate thinker
• Extensive data analysis and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in a complex work environment, deal with ambiguity and across functions.

What we offer
We recognise and celebrate diversity within Team ORC and are committed to providing a work environment that supports inclusion and equal opportunities. We actively encourage applications from anyone who will live our values of MANA- We influence with respect and integrity, TIKA- We do the right thing and do things right and AROHA- We show that that we care, alongside us, regardless of their background.
To support our diverse and capable team, we're pleased to offer enhanced benefits such as:

• Flexible work opportunities
• Life Insurance
• Superannuation
• An annual wellbeing programme.
• Competitive remuneration packages
• Development opportunities

How to Apply
If you meet the above criteria, we welcome your application, including your CV and cover letter outlining why you are the person for this role via the Apply button.
Please also check out our concurrent listing for 'Team Leader - Land', also within the ORC Science team.
Please note. We don't always work to fixed closing dates and may start considering and interviewing candidates as their applications are received, so we encourage you to apply early.
All candidates require the right to work in New Zealand.
Applications close Thursday 21st November 2024