Location: Dunedin or Alexandra
- Work across Otago’s large, complex & diverse
river systems
- Be part of a collaborative, supportive and
values-driven organisation
- From alpine lakes to coastlines, Otago offers an
exceptional lifestyle
Otago Regional Council (ORC) is seeking a
Team Leader - Rivers to lead the planning and delivery of river management
programmes across Otago. This is a hands-on leadership role, responsible for
guiding a team of river engineers and delivering a programme of river engineering
works that protect communities, support infrastructure, and enhance
environmental outcomes.
Otago has large, complex and highly varied
river systems from alpine headwaters through to lowland floodplains and coastal
environments. River works include vegetation control, gravel and riverbed
management, erosion protection and restoration, maintaining flood conveyance
capacity, improving river resilience and
environmental outcomes.
The Role
This role is about leadership, programme
delivery and oversight. You’ll be coming
into an established team ready to be supported with clear priorities and
programme direction.
- Lead and develop a team of five river engineers
and specialists
- Plan and deliver regional work programmes
(annual + long-term)
- Manage budgets, priorities and programme
performance
- Oversee contractor delivery and contract
management
- Ensure compliance with environmental consents
and regulations, and input to consent processes
- Build relationships with councils, iwi,
landowners and stakeholders
What We’re Looking For
- Proven team leadership experience (technical or
operational teams)
- Strong programme / delivery management
capability
- Experience working with contractors and multiple
workstreams
- Confidence operating in regulated or
environmental frameworks
- Strong stakeholder and communication skills
- Strong
understanding of relevant legislation, including resource management
frameworks.
Backgrounds:
- River / civil / environmental engineering
(preferred)
- Environmental or natural resource management
- Open to non-engineers with strong leadership +
delivery experience
Why Join Otago Regional Council?
- Lead river management across one of NZ’s most
geographically diverse regions
- Work on large-scale, complex river systems with
real environmental and community impact
- Be part of a collaborative, supportive and
values-driven organisation
- Strong focus on professional development,
wellbeing and flexible working
- Opportunity to shape team culture, capability
and delivery outcomes
Live and Work in Otago
This is more than a job - it’s a lifestyle.
From alpine lakes and ski fields to rugged
coastlines, cycle trails and vibrant communities, Otago offers an exceptional
quality of life. Whether you’re based in Dunedin or Central Otago, you’ll have
access to some of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural environments - right
on your doorstep!
Apply Now
Click Apply or to find out more, contact
Fiona Clarke in confidence on 027 688 8837
Applications close 20 April 2026,
however, we encourage early applications as the role may be filled sooner.
Otago
Regional Council has engaged Peak Recruitment to manage the recruitment of this
position. Please direct all enquiries and applications to Peak Recruitment.
