Biosecurity Field Operator

JobSpace; Cromwell Community; On-site; NZD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided

Health care benefits

Training and development

Job summary

Downer is seeking a self-motivated Biosecurity Field Operator to join our South Island team on a fixed-term basis until June 2027, with potential extension based on project needs.

Based in Cromwell with travel to rural locations, you will trap, bait, survey and monitor pests such as possums, rabbits and ferrets, and manage pest plants; accommodation is provided and safety, GPS accuracy and record-keeping are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in field pest operations or related outdoor work is preferred.
• Ability to operate in rural environments with safety focus.

Responsibilities

• Trap, bait, survey and monitor pests (possums, rabbits, ferrets).
• Manage pest plants such as gorse and wilding pines; collect data with GPS devices.
• Travel to various locations with accommodation provided; maintain records.

Skills

GPS handheld devices

Field operations

Safety focus

Teamwork

Ability to work away from home

Education

NZQA Unit standards in 4WD/LUV/Motorcycle/Chainsaw use

Tools

GPS devices

4WD/LUV operation

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Downer's Biosecurity Team is an industry leader in the implementation and operation of rural pest management programmes. Our vision is to maintain a sustainable pest control industry through employing the right people, providing them the right resources and supporting them with ongoing training and development.

We have a great opportunity to combine your love of the outdoors and being paid, by joining our South Island team as a Biosecurity Field Operator on a fixed term basis to apply pest management techniques to control invertebrate and insect pests.

Your responsibilities will include trapping, baiting, surveying, and monitoring pest animals like possums, rabbits, and ferrets, as well as managing pest plants such as gorse, broom, and wilding pines. While your home base will be in Cromwell, your work will take you to various locations, with accommodation provided unless you're operating directly from the depot.

This fixed-term position is expected to last until June 2027, with the possibility of extension based on project needs.

We're looking for a self-motivated, fit and energetic individual who can thrive both independently and as part of a small team. Safety and risk management are top priorities, so you'll need to maintain a strong focus on these while working in the field for extended periods. Proficiency in using GPS and handheld recording devices is essential, along with the ability to keep accurate records.

As work is often undertaken on working farmland it is essential to understand animal behaviours through leisure activities or from working in a rural environment.

• Class 1 driver's licence
• Experience operating a 4 Wheel Drive and/or Light Utility Vehicle would be highly desirable
• A strong focus on health and safety i.e. keeping you and your work mates safe
• The ability to work away from home for extended periods of time (accommodation and other benefits will be provided)
• First aid certificate
• Controlled Substance Licence or Approved Handler Certificate
• Growsafe Certificate
• NZQA Unit standards in 4WD, LUV, Motorcycle or Chainsaw use

While previous experience in pest operations is preferred, we are open to training the right candidate, especially if your qualifications have lapsed or if you have some knowledge gaps.

Ko te take ka parekareka e koe ki te mahi ki kōnei | Why you will enjoy working here

Downer is committed to delivering excellence by ensuring our people have the environment and the means to be successful. We offer:

• Free access to Marram health care benefits and discounted holiday homes
• Internal promotion encouraged, training and development on offer
• Discounts for insurance, retail stores, gym memberships and more!
• Safety equipment and clothing provided as part of the role

Job Info

• Job Identification 734724
• Job Category Frontline Trades and Labour