In partnership with our community, Environment Southland (Southland Regional Council) is responsible for the sustainable management of Southland's natural resources - our land, our water, our air and our coast. As a Regional Council we operate across a large geographical region which extends from Stewart Island to Fiordland.

The work you do will directly contribute to protecting communities, supporting productive land use and maintaining resilient river and drainage systems across Murihiku.

Working at Environment Southland includes supporting positive relationships with mana whenua and recognising Te Tiriti o Waitangi responsibilities in operational delivery.

We are looking for a motivated, capable and practical person to help deliver Environment Southland's river management, flood protection and land drainage programmes across some of New Zealand's most iconic and dynamic landscapes. This is a hands-on operational role combining contractor supervision, stakeholder engagement, environmental stewardship and delivery of civil and river engineering works.

This role will appeal to people who:

• like field work,
• practical decision making,
• machinery,
• rivers,
• problem solving,
• and responsibility.

You will work closely with contractors, landowners and technical staff to plan and deliver works in complex natural environments where flood resilience, environmental values and community expectations must all be balanced. We are looking for someone who is confident engaging and supervising contractors, has a good working knowledge of health and safety, and a particular strength in developing good working relationships with ratepayers - particularly those in rural areas.

While a tertiary qualification in civil engineering and skills in river processes would be advantageous, we also value other relevant work experience and a desire to achieve. A working knowledge of health and safety, experience in contract supervision, great communication and relationship building skills are ideal and a full driver's licence is essential.

We have a lifestyle that's second to none, with easy access to beaches, rivers, lakes, ski fields, national parks and first-class sports facilities. We pride ourselves on ensuring that employees' work‑life balance is a priority. With affordable real estate, short commutes and a great range of schools on offer, there is something for everyone!

If you would like to be part of a supportive, progressive team making a difference to the people of Southland, we can offer you a competitive remuneration package, the support of experts in natural resource management, a positive workplace culture, and a genuine opportunity for career advancement.

The negotiable remuneration range for this position is $88,290 - $93,195, depending on skills and experience.

How to apply

If this practical environmental infrastructure career with autonomy, purpose and field leadership sounds like the opportunity for you, go to https://environmentsouthland.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Vacancies/ & enter ref code: 6902285.

To apply and upload your CV and cover letter. Your cover letter will be a key part of our assessment process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key skills required for this role.

Applications close: 28 June 2026

Working at Environment Southland requires all of our staff to uphold the council's Te Tiriti o Waitangi responsibilities as part of their day-to-day role. This may include working in partnership with mana whenua and supporting the commitments our elected councillors have made to Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku through the Charter of Understanding.