Senior Scientist Estuaries and Lakes

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.

Having recently undergone an organisational redesign to ensure that we have the right structure and resources in place to respond to the changing needs of our communities, and the unique environment that we operate in, we currently have an exciting opportunity for an experienced

Senior Scientist Estuaries and Lakes.

About the role:

The role of the Senior Scientist Estuaries and Lakes is to provide advice and expertise in Estuarine and Lakes science relevant to the needs of Environment Southland. Develop, implement and manage Estuarine and Lake science monitoring programmes and investigations. Lead and/or participate in the development, implementation, advocacy and monitoring of Estuarine and Lakes science management strategies and programmes aligned with meeting organisational strategic outcomes.

This role focuses on:

You will work predominantly in the Estuaries and Lakes domain but will need to work closely within a multi-disciplinary team. A key responsibility of role is to develop science capacity in Southland in to meet strategic outcomes. This will require the ability to develop and maintain key supporting relationships and to convey complex information to multiple audiences. You need to be a critical thinker with the ability to manage complex systems that will enable exploration of pathways for your and other teams to contribute and develop unique, robust solutions for a range of simple to complex issues. You will need to have a high/expert level of understanding and experience of Estuary and Lake sciences, with the ability to coordinate, translate and communicate science effectively and have the ability to mentor junior staff.

What you'll bring:

• A post-graduate qualification in a relevant science discipline relating to aquatic sciences.
• A minimum of 7-10 years relevant experience.
• Project management experience and experience in meeting project deadlines.
• Knowledge of the key environmental issues of the Southland region and relating to Estuary and Lake sciences.
• Experience working with stakeholders, community groups and iwi.
• An ability to think strategically, and to develop a strong organisational focus.
• Proven ability to design and implement science research, investigation and monitoring programmes and a sound understanding of associated experimental design and statistical procedures.
• Skilled at communicating effectively - particularly listening, writing, and networking with diverse groups and individuals.
• Ability to plan and organise work effectively, manage projects to budget and the ability to work within a small, multi-disciplinary team.
• Proven ability in the use of computers, spreadsheets, GIS and modelling packages.
• A high level of presentation skills and ability to tailor science to a wide range of audiences.

Why Choose Environment Southland?

We have a lifestyle that is second to none, with easy access to beaches, rivers, lakes, ski fields, national parks and first-class sports facilities. We pride ourselves on the support we give our team to ensure a good work‑life balance is a priority. And with affordable real estate, short commutes and a great range of schools on offer there is something here for everyone!

An initial offer of remuneration will be made within the range $109,260 - $115,330.

How to apply

To download the PD, and to apply for this job go to: https://environmentsouthland.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Vacancies

Please ensure you 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: 19 July 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 might be through the appropriate delivery of functions through various legislation where Te Tiriti o Waitangi or partnering with mana whenua is required or upholding the commitments that our elected councillors have made to Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku through the Charter of Understanding.

To apply for this job go to: https://environmentsouthland.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Vacancies & enter ref code: 6907556.