Our people love working here because we are an enthusiastic team, with a diverse range of skills and experience, who are all rowing in the same direction. We are all passionate about making a positive difference for our community, both now and for our future generations. What drives us is making Taranaki the best place in Aotearoa, New Zealand to live, play and do business!
Our main office is based right in the centre of the region, right under our maunga (mountain), in Stratford. Living and working here means you have all the big city benefits, along with a rural lifestyle, and quick access to the sea, and breathtaking country.
Whakatakanga & Whanonga pono | Mission & Values
Our mission is to work for a thriving Taranaki by promoting the sustainable use, development and protection of our natural and physical resources, and advocating for the region’s best interests.
We are committed to providing a service first approach to the public and regional community, and in doing so aim to continue to better the quality of our performance while working safely, sustaining effective communication and teamwork, having the initiative and right to make mistakes, holding accountability for improvement, being results-driven, and holding high job satisfaction.
Watch the video to find out more about Taranaki Regional Council's kaupapa, culture and the impact of our mahi.
Job Description
Mō te tūnga | About the role
The role of Scientist - Freshwater is to contribute specialist expertise and advice across a range of the Council’s environmental and statutory functions. This role has a particular focus on freshwater ecology (benthic invertebrates, freshwater fish, fish passage, lakes, periphyton, cyanobacteria etc.). This role will require you to use your technical competencies alongside your project planning, coordination and delivery skills. You’ll be an effective team player, working in close collaboration with other members of the Freshwater & Coastal team and wider Environmental Quality department.
You will of course be supported in your work by the Team Leader- Freshwater & Coastal, Manager- Science & Technology and the Director- Environment Quality.
Further details on the role can be found below on the Position Description link, or for any other questions please contact our People and Wellness team on recruitment@trc.govt.nz.
You will have a passion for the environment, and interest in working at the interface of science and policy. This role requires someone with a tertiary qualification in freshwater ecology/biology, or water chemistry. Relevant work experience in scientific monitoring techniques, data analysis and technical report writing for freshwater sciences is desired. Familiarity with the Resource Management Act (1991) and National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (2020) would also be advantageous.
The Council is a busy environment where you will need to be versatile, resourceful and have exceptional interpersonal and organisational skills. You should be able to demonstrate strong initiative and problem-solving skills, which will be regularly tested in this role. A full driver’s licence is required.
To be successful in this role you will need to demonstrate the following:
Ability to be flexible and agile in your practice to provide outcomes
Proven interpersonal and conflict resolution skills
Ability to manage multiple jobs
What’s on offer?
Taranaki Regional Council is a fantastic place to work! We have a great culture.
Five weeks + one day annual leave entitlement
Active social club
Onsite gym
Flexible working options
Free car parking
Training opportunities within each role
However, the best part is working alongside fantastic people who are truly dedicated to the Taranaki region.
The starting remuneration range for this role is $91,455 - $107,594 per annum (including KiwiSaver) for an appropriately experienced and/or qualified individual.
Interested? Here's How to Apply
Click on the ‘apply’ button, fill out your application form and add your CV and cover letter.
Don’t meet every single requirement? Taranaki Regional Council is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace based on different experiences, world views and a desire to learn. So, if you’re excited about this role, but don’t meet the criteria perfectly, we encourage you to reach out anyway. You might be just who we’re looking for.
Applications close, Sunday 21 December 2025. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, however due to our Christmas shut down period shortlisting and interviews may not take place until mid-January 2026.
