Labourer/Operator

About Environment Canterbury

Environment Canterbury is a regional council dedicated to overseeing the management of natural resources such as air, soil, water, and land. Collaborating with mana whenua Ngāi Tahu, the council works to safeguard environmental health to secure a sustainable and thriving future for the region. With ever-changing environmental and political landscapes, the organization emphasizes adaptability to meet evolving regulations and environmental challenges.

Our core activities focus on:

• Environmental Regulation and Protection
• Community Preparedness and Response to Hazards
• Public Transport

The council actively integrates national policies and legislative updates into daily operations, ensuring continuous delivery of essential services to partners, communities, and the environment.

Role Overview

This varied role involves working in local river environments and surrounding areas to establish and maintain river protection structures, carry out tree planting, control noxious weeds, and handle tree felling and clearance tasks. Practical use of 4WD vehicles, tractors, chainsaws, spray equipment, and other light machinery is part of the role; while prior experience is preferred, comprehensive training will be provided.

Work is done collaboratively with other team members and contractors, alongside heavy machinery including bulldozers, excavators, dump trucks, and skidders.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform labouring tasks and operate plant equipment following safety protocols
• Maintain tools and machinery ensuring compliance with safety standards
• Contribute to emergency response activities during floods, fires, and other natural disasters
• Collaborate effectively with mana whenua and local community stakeholders

Working Hours & Compensation

Typical working hours are Monday to Friday, 10 hours each day, totaling around 50 hours per week. The role requires availability for emergency work as needed. The hourly wage is NZ$28.95.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is practical, safety-minded, enjoys outdoor work, and demonstrates a positive attitude coupled with a willingness to learn. A strong environmental ethic should underpin all activities. Candidates should have solid knowledge of health and safety practices and the ability to work independently and unsupervised.

Experience & Qualifications

• Possession of a minimum Class 1 Full Driver Licence; Class 2 and 4 with W, T, R endorsements are required for Operator roles
• Experience with chainsaws, machinery operation, and herbicide application is advantageous; training will be provided
• Capacity to work collaboratively within a team and adhere to health and safety requirements

A medical examination is mandatory prior to employment offers due to the physical demands of the role.

Organizational Values

• Kaitiakitanga (stewardship)
• Pononga (integrity)
• Manaakitanga (people first)
• Whanaungatanga (collaboration)
• Māiatanga (can-do attitude)

Environment Canterbury embraces workforce diversity to serve the community and environment better. The organization fosters Treaty partnership excellence and encourages incorporation of te ao Māori in daily work, supporting employee growth in cultural capabilities.

Additional Information

For insight into this role, confidential discussions can be arranged by contacting Ben Macleod on 0800 324 636. Applicants should complete the online application form and attach their CV and cover letter. The closing date for applications is Wednesday, 2 September, but early applications are encouraged as interviews may begin before that date and the position may be closed early. Short-listed candidates will undergo interviews, reference checks, criminal background checks, and other relevant vetting procedures.

The organization is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace and encourages applications even from candidates who may not meet every qualification but are enthusiastic about the role.