Senior Adviser Operations
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI)
Christchurch, Canterbury Region, New Zealand · Full Time
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- Experience
- Any
- Salary
- NZD 100,934 – NZD 118,005 / year
- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 3 weeks ago
- Work mode
- In office
- Education
- Relevant tertiary qualification
- Eligibility
- People with experience in pest management, forestry operations, or a related discipline who also have the right to work in New Zealand, or are eligible to obtain that right, may apply. The role also requires a current full New Zealand driver licence or equivalent full foreign licence with any requi…
- Resume
- Required to apply
Where you'll work
Job description
Role overview
Biosecurity New Zealand is hiring a Senior Adviser Operations to help deliver the National Wilding Conifer Control Programme. This permanent, full-time role is based in Christchurch (Burnside) and sits within the Pest Management Programmes Group, which is responsible for major national programmes that safeguard New Zealand’s environment, economy, and way of life from established pests and diseases.
The position carries a salary range of General Salary Range D, from $100,934 to $118,005, depending on skills and experience.
What you will do
You will support the delivery of operational control work so that it is well prioritised, coordinated, and carried out safely. The role involves working closely with delivery partners, strengthening relationships across the sector, and helping resolve operational challenges as they arise. You will also contribute to long-term planning, evidence-based improvements, and collaboration through the Operational and Technical Advisory Groups. Regular travel is part of the role.
- Build and sustain productive relationships with partner organisations and stakeholders.
- Implement operational systems, policies, and procedures for the programme.
- Coordinate programme partners and assist regional councils with operational planning.
- Lead the resolution of operational issues and support health and safety practices.
- Help develop Good Practice Guidelines and strategic planning frameworks.
- Support ongoing review, evaluation, and improvement of the work programme.
- Provide technical support and share learnings across pest management programmes.
- Assist the Team Manager with analysis, reporting, advice, and collaborative delivery.
- Contribute to response activities and continuous improvement initiatives.
About you
You will bring sound judgement, strategic thinking, and subject matter knowledge in pest management or forestry. You should be comfortable building relationships, working across complex stakeholder environments, and leading operational planning that supports national priorities.
- Hands-on experience in pest management, forestry operations, or a similar area.
- Strong capability in operational planning and coordination, with safety and effectiveness front of mind.
- Proven relationship management skills across central and local government, iwi, industry, and community groups.
- Good strategic judgement and the ability to plan and prioritise long-term control work.
- Confidence resolving difficult operational problems and improving ways of working.
- Working knowledge of health and safety legislation and field operation best practice.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence and work collaboratively.
- Experience delivering projects or programmes, including monitoring, reporting, and risk management.
- A relevant tertiary qualification, or equivalent practical experience.
Other requirements
You must hold a current full New Zealand driver licence, or an equivalent full foreign licence, with any endorsements needed for the driving associated with the role. Please note that this is a safety-sensitive position, and the preferred candidate will need to complete pre-employment drug and alcohol screening.
About the team
You will be based in Christchurch and join a committed team spread across Christchurch, Nelson, Wellington, and Auckland. The team works with regional councils, DOC, industry groups, landowners, community trusts, and other government teams to deliver effective pest management outcomes. The work includes regular travel to field locations and participation in strategic planning and ministerial decision-making.
About MPI
The Ministry for Primary Industries partners with New Zealand’s food and fibre sector to support the country as a trusted supplier of high-value food and fibre products.
Benefits
- Additional MPI leave days.
- Annual wellness payment.
- Bi-annual paid eye test, plus a contribution toward corrective lenses or frames.
Application information
Applicants should include a cover letter explaining their values, motivation for the role, interest in the work, and the strengths, abilities, attributes, and perspectives they would bring to the position, including experiences gained outside paid work if relevant. Candidates must have the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it. Applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday 5 July 2026. For role queries, contact [email protected].
Values and inclusion
The organisation is committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi and working closely with iwi, hapū, whānau, and hāpori. Applications are welcomed from people of all backgrounds and identities, and the organisation aims to be a great place to work for everyone.