Land Management Advisor

About Environment Canterbury

Environment Canterbury is a regional council responsible for managing essential natural resources such as air, soil, water, and land in partnership with mana whenua Ngāi Tahu. The council is committed to protecting environmental health and fostering a sustainable, prosperous future for the Canterbury region, adapting responsively to evolving environmental and political landscapes. Its core service areas include Environmental Regulation and Protection, Community Preparedness and Response to Hazards, and Public Transport. The council also actively engages with national legislation and policy developments while maintaining continuous service delivery.

Role Overview

As a Land Management Advisor within the Water and Land sector, you will play a vital role in leading place-based collaborative initiatives. Your work will involve close coordination with landowners, rūnanga, community groups, industry partners, and government representatives to foster sustainable land use and environmental guardianship across the Canterbury region. This role emphasizes a collaborative approach combining technical expertise, relationship management, and community engagement to drive positive environmental outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the execution of place-based, collaborative land management programmes.
• Offer expert technical guidance to farmers and landowners regarding sustainable land management practices.
• Develop and nurture strong partnerships with rūnanga, industry bodies, and relevant stakeholders.
• Lead community engagement efforts aimed at encouraging behavioural changes supportive of environmental sustainability.
• Support projects that safeguard land, water, and biodiversity values.

Candidate Profile

You should have a passion for fostering environmental benefits through community collaboration and be adept at engaging diverse stakeholders. Enjoyment of fieldwork, ability to translate technical concepts into practical advice, and experience working with farmers, primary industry groups, or environmental initiatives will be valued. Regular travel in Canterbury and holding a current Class 1 driver's license are essential.

Qualifications and Experience

• A tertiary qualification in agriculture, resource management, environmental science, or similar fields is preferred.
• Up to three years of relevant experience in farming, sustainability, biodiversity, ecology, or resource management is desirable.
• Proven skills in stakeholder engagement and collaboration to address complex issues.
• Capability to communicate technical and regulatory information in a clear and effective manner.

Working at Environment Canterbury

The council’s values—stewardship (Kaitiakitanga), integrity (Pononga), people-first mindset (Manaakitanga), collaboration (Whanaungatanga), and a positive, can-do approach (Māiatanga)—underpin all work. Environment Canterbury embraces a diverse and inclusive workforce, striving to integrate te ao Māori perspectives and support the use of kaupapa Māori, mātauranga Māori, and te reo Māori throughout its operations.

Additional Information

• The position is permanent, full-time, based in Timaru or Twizel.
• Applications require submission of a CV and cover letter and will be reviewed as received; early applications are encouraged.
• Shortlisted candidates will undergo interviews, reference checks, and criminal background checks as applicable.
• The council is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and encourages applications even from those without all qualifications fully aligned.