Environmental Protection Officer
Job No:
114900
Location:
Blenheim
- Do you have an investigative mind and the ability to spot patterns and solve complex problems?
- Do you love the idea of a role that offers variety, indoor and outdoor work AND the opportunity to help protect the environment?
- If you answered 'YES' to either of the above then we want to talk to you!
- Attractive remuneration package circa NZD$65,000-$82,000 PLUS 5% super, generous leave, relocation assistance, health & income protection insurance & more!
About the Opportunity
Marlborough District Council (MDC) is now seeking a full-time Environmental Protection Officer to join their team in Blenheim, situated in the heart of wine-growing Marlborough region on New Zealand's south island. This is a Monday to Friday role with occasional rostered after hours work, as required.
Reporting to the Compliance Manager and working within a team of approximately 9-10 Environmental Protection Officers, this role will see you ensuring a high standard of environmental protection and compliance is maintained within the Marlborough region, through the monitoring of resource consents and responding to customer concerns. This could include anything from compliance issues regarding winery waste, through to marine farms, air pollution or water quality.
Some of your day-to-day duties will include (but not be limited to):
- Formulating strategies for enforcement of the RMA 1991 and Bylaws;
- Understanding and investigating complaints objectively and impartially;
- Preparing and presenting evidence to Council hearings and potentially to Court;
- Informing and educating landowners and businesses on the benefits of consent compliance; and
- Fostering working relationships with industry to minimise their environmental impacts.
To view the full position description, please click here.
About You
This is a challenging role, but one that offers fantastic variety. With a mixture of indoor and outdoor work and an ever-changing case load, no two days will be the same!
Ideally you will hold previous experience as an EPO or similar role with the proven ability to interpret key policies, legislation and procedures. You will need to have sound judgment and decision making skills, with an investigative mind and an aptitude for dealing with compliance issues that can at times be complex and contentious.
Relevant tertiary qualifications in resource management, environmental science, compliance or similar will be well regarded but are not mandatory, providing you have the above experience and behavioural characteristics.
As this is a customer facing role, the ability to provide high-level customer service and the willingness to engage with internal and external stakeholders from all walks of life, will be key to your success in this role. You will have exceptional communication skills, the conflict resolution skills to navigate occasional difficult situations, and be comfortable working collaboratively in a team environment.
Please note: Due to the nature of this position you will need to be both willing and physically able to conduct site visits in often difficult terrain or environments. You will need a current valid Drivers License, preferably with manual driving capability, and will be provided with 4 wheel drive training to facilitate these visits.
Package & Benefits
This is a fantastic opportunity to take on a new challenge and further your career within a thriving Council.
In return for your hard work and dedication, you will be rewarded with an attractive base salary circa NZD $65,000 - $82,000 (negotiable with skills and experience) plus a range of additional benefits including:
- 5% super (matching employee contribution);
- 5 weeks' annual leave;
- 10 days' sick leave;
- Shared pool vehicle;
- Relocation assistance;
- Health and income protection insurance; and
- A wellness program to support your health, wellbeing, and financial security
Council offices are modern and open plan, with the belief that this environment improves functionality and workflow, allowing for improved communication and productivity. The main office building is situated in the CBD, amongst cafés and shops. 30 seconds is all it takes to be in town meeting friends and family for lunch.
Marlborough is a unique district, with a small, friendly population and large geographic footprint encompassing a mix of regional and urban areas. More than 65% of New Zealand's wine comes from this region, and it is home to several endemic species plus the famous Marlborough Sounds.
You will be joining a close-knit team that regularly enjoy each other's company. The social club brings staff together in a relaxed atmosphere for Friday night drinks and other organised events, including mid-year and end of year celebrations.
In addition, MDC encourages professional development, ongoing training, and career progression. You will have the opportunity to take control of your own growth and skill enhancement with Council support, including access to seminars and conferences.
The above are just some of the many amazing benefits of working for MDC - it's no wonder tenure is so high, with many employees having been on board for 25+ years!
About Marlborough District Council
Marlborough District Council is made up of a diverse workforce who pride themselves on providing a safe and healthy workplace. As a Unitary Authority, MDC provides unique opportunities for their people to learn and grow across a wide range of functions.
MDC’s values and behaviours are based on Respect, Professionalism and Integrity. Council is committed to an environment that supports professional development, an equal opportunities workplace, and a positive culture.
Over the next decade, Marlborough will become a globally-connected district of progressive, high value enterprise, known for its economic efficiency, quality lifestyle, desirable location and natural environment. Marlborough will be “Smart and Connected”.