Environmental Protection Officer

Job No: 121725
Location: Blenheim

  • Do you have an investigative mind and the ability to spot patterns or solve complex problems?
  • Join an innovative Council in a role that offers a variety of indoor/outdoor work AND the opportunity to help protect the environment!
  • Attractive remuneration package circa NZD$62,000 - $87,000 PLUS 5% super, generous leave, relocation assistance, health & income protection insurance & more!

About Marlborough District Council

Marlborough District Council (MDC) 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”.

About the Opportunity

Marlborough District Council 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 7-9 Environmental Protection Officers, this role will see you monitoring resource consents and responding to customer concerns to ensure the Marlborough region maintains its high standard of environmental protection and compliance. 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 Resource Management Act (RMA) 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

Ideally, you will hold previous experience in an environmental protection or similar role with the proven ability to interpret key policies, legislation and procedures.

Tertiary qualifications in resource management, environmental science, compliance or similar will be highly regarded but are not essential, providing you can demonstrate 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. 

As this is a customer facing role, the ability to provide high-level customer service and engage with internal and external stakeholders, from all walks of life, will be key to your success. You will have exceptional communication skills, be comfortable working collaboratively, and have the conflict resolution skills to navigate occasional difficult situations.

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

With a mixture of indoor and outdoor work and an ever-changing case load, no two days will be the same! This is a fantastic opportunity to take on a new challenge and further your career with a thriving Council.

In return for your hard work and dedication, you will be rewarded with an attractive base salary circa NZD $62,000 - $87,000 (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 or 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. From world-famous vineyards, where more than 65% of New Zealand's wine is grown, to the 1500km of winding coastline and secluded bays that make up the Marlborough Sounds, the region offers something for everyone, and is also home to several endemic species.

You'll be joining a diverse, 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 all of their staff to take advantage of significant training, and career progression opportunities. You will have the opportunity to take control of your own growth and professional development with full 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!

Get out of the office and tackle a new challenge every day in this unique role protecting the diverse landscapes of the picturesque Marlborough Region - Apply Now!

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