Geomatics Surveyor

About the organisation

Earth Sciences NZ came into being on 1 July 2025 after GNS and NIWA combined, with MetService due to join later and expand its reach further. The organisation brings together specialist knowledge and modern technology to deliver science across earth, environmental, and natural resource domains. Its work is organised around six key areas: geological hazards, weather and climate, energy, land and freshwater, atmosphere and climate, and oceans.

This change is part of a major refresh of New Zealand’s science and innovation landscape, intended to build a more collaborative, agile, and high-impact system. Once MetService is acquired, Earth Sciences NZ is expected to have about 1,500 people across 22 locations, around $400 million in assets, and $370 million in annual revenue, including significant commercial income streams. It offers a rare chance to influence science delivery for Aotearoa New Zealand and help build a globally respected science organisation.

The role

The Geomatics Surveyor will contribute to work on landslide hazards and the risks they create, as well as support responses to natural hazard events such as landslides, earthquakes, and severe weather. The position includes field assignments in both urban and remote parts of New Zealand, and may also involve marine surveying and overseas travel. The successful person will have a solid background in surveying or geomatics and be comfortable handling the full spatial data process, from collection and processing through to analysis and practical use. Interest in earth science and geohazards will be an advantage.

Key responsibilities

• Use geomatics methods and advanced spatial tools to assess ground movement and deformation.
• Collect, process, combine, and interpret geospatial information from field surveys and remote sensing sources.
• Produce accurate, useful findings for both research work and commercial assignments.
• Assist with equipment maintenance, help train colleagues, and support landslide response activities.

What you will bring

• A qualification in geomatics, surveying, or a closely related discipline; postgraduate study is a plus. Industry or research experience is expected.
• Strong capability in GNSS, geospatial analysis, and a variety of surveying and remote sensing tools.
• Proven ability to organise and complete field surveys, along with a willingness to travel for longer field deployments.
• Well-developed skills in data handling, processing, analysis, and technical reporting.
• Good communication, adaptability, teamwork, organisation, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in offshore marine surveying would be beneficial.

What is offered

• Interesting and meaningful work alongside skilled colleagues in an organisation focused on earth science.
• A high-performing environment that values employee growth and wellbeing.
• Access to generous leave provisions and employee benefits.
• A permanent full-time position based at the Avalon campus in Lower Hutt, working 38 hours per week.
• Salary range: NZD 84,334 to NZD 111,081, depending on relevant experience.

Additional information

Applications close at 11.55 pm on Wednesday, 8 July 2026. Questions can be sent to people@earthsciences.nz. The full position description is available on the employer’s careers page.

Employment details

This is a full-time permanent role based in Wellington, New Zealand, with a primarily onsite working arrangement. The role may require extended travel within New Zealand, and could include marine surveying work and international travel.