Science Manager

The role

The Science Manager oversees our environmental science programme, leading a team of experienced and emerging science specialists.

With a solid team structure in place, the team actively makes a difference on the ground across our vast geographical landscape, and provides valuable insights and input into the monitoring, reporting, regulatory and policy functions, and across diverse research portfolios.

You’ll ensure there’s continual integration of science and evidence based analysis into wider work, and provide sound scientific advice to Council, the Executive, and colleagues across all areas involving the region’s natural environment.

This is a permanent full time position, located in Palmerston North.

About you

To be successful in this role you’ll be an environmental scientist with experience working with a range of science programmes, ideally with some freshwater science experience. You’ll have sound technical experience as well as demonstrable people leadership experience.

In addition you’ll have:

• a post graduate degree in a relevant natural science
• environmental science work experience – experience in designing, undertaking and reporting scientific research programmes
• a sound knowledge of the Resource Management Act
• strong demonstrable leadership skills
• excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• knowledge and experience of local government, preferably regional councils
• an understanding of Mātauranga Māori or willingness to learn.

You’ll be a trusted advisor, and able to influence and build excellent stakeholder relationships. Given our work encompasses legislative change you’ll also operate with a collaborative ethos and be able to navigate and lead confidently and compassionately through change.

As this is a level three management role you’ll be committed to a high level of service delivery and professionalism, and the associated people and management responsibilities.

About Us

The Horizons region extends over 22,200km² - from Ruapehu in the north and Horowhenua in the south, to Whanganui in the west and Tararua in the east. Our purpose is to work with and for our community in the use and protection of our environment, managing our precious resources of land, air and water; as well as public transport and a key role in emergency management. At Horizons Regional Council we work to make our region a healthy environment where people are thriving, including our staff.

Based in Palmerston North we’re a family friendly organisation, and our people enjoy a balanced work/home lifestyle, with the great outdoors on the doorstep.

Our benefits include:

• ongoing professional development and opportunities across the organisation
• a positive focus on employee health and wellness initiatives including a wellness day
• a day off on your birthday
• life insurance
• family friendly work environment
• supportive and social work environment.

Horizons is an equal opportunity employer committed to ensuring we have a diverse and inclusive workplace to be reflective of the diversity of the region.

For more information about this fabulous opportunity or a detailed job description, please contact Jacaleen Williams at Talent International on 021 732 996 or Nicci McQueen on 027 363 0422.

Applications close Sunday 13 April 2025 and will be reviewed as they are received.