Climate Services Scientist - Earth Sciences

About Earth Sciences New Zealand

Earth Sciences New Zealand is dedicated to integrating outstanding science, technology, and talent to tackle the environmental, climate, and natural hazard challenges faced by Aotearoa New Zealand. We emphasize collaboration and purpose, aiming to provide impactful science that benefits communities, industry, and the environment. Our commitment includes partnering with Māori, enhancing Pacific resilience, and contributing to a sustainable future for generations ahead.

Role Overview

We seek a strategic, relationship-driven leader passionate about leveraging climate science and data to advance resilience, adaptation, and risk-informed decisions. This role focuses on combining technical knowledge, stakeholder collaboration, and program management to create effective climate services that meet the diverse needs of partners across the Pacific region and New Zealand.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead initiatives that develop and deliver climate services, early warning systems, and decision-support tools to aid communities and organizations in managing climate and hazard risks.
• Provide expert guidance in designing and deploying innovative climate information products and systems for partners in the Pacific and New Zealand.
• Analyze climate science and data to interpret impacts, variability, and extreme events, transforming insights into actionable solutions.
• Establish and nurture strong partnerships with Pacific governments, regional bodies, development organizations, and other stakeholders.
• Oversee complex regional programs and projects ensuring effective delivery, partner involvement, and superior outcomes.
• Facilitate capacity building by conducting training, sharing knowledge, and co-developing tools with stakeholders and partners.
• Support business growth activities including preparing proposals, fostering strategic partnerships, and identifying future investment possibilities.
• Represent the organization at regional forums, technical working groups, and collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing climate resilience across the Pacific.

Candidate Profile

• Holds a Research degree (MSc or PhD) or possesses equivalent experience in earth sciences, climate science, geography, engineering, or related fields.
• Has 5 to 10 years of post-graduate experience in hydro-meteorological, climate, or hazard-related sectors.
• Demonstrates technical expertise in developing science-based innovative products for climate services, risk management, and decision support.
• Experienced in engaging with end-user sectors, understanding their needs, and leading workshops and consultations, particularly in developing regions.
• Skilled in project management, leading international development teams, and reporting to multilateral development partners and donors.
• Proficient in developing proposals to secure research and commercial contracts.
• Strong in scientific report writing and dissemination of evidence-based results.

Inclusion and Diversity

We encourage applicants from underrepresented and neurodiverse communities. If this role aligns with your expertise, experiences, or aspirations, we welcome your application and are dedicated to supporting your growth.

What We Provide

• Engaging and meaningful work within a skilled team committed to earth science.
• An organization that values employee development and wellbeing with high performance standards.
• Generous leave and employee benefit programs.
• Flexible working arrangements, including part-time or varied start and finish times, with options to be discussed during the interview process.
• A permanent full-time role (37.5 hours per week) based at our Greta Point campus in Wellington.
• A competitive salary ranging from $95,000 to $130,000 annually, commensurate with experience and skills.

Additional Information

Applications are open until Thursday, 31 July 2026. For further information or questions regarding the role or recruitment process, contact the recruitment team directly via email.