Biosecurity Field Operator

Downer; Cromwell Community; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided

Training and development

Insurance discounts & benefits

Safety equipment provided

Health care benefits

Job summary

Downer is seeking a Biosecurity Field Operator to join our South Island team, based in Cromwell with travel to rural locations. You will apply pest management techniques to control invertebrate pests, performing trapping, baiting, surveying and monitoring tasks.

This fixed-term role runs until June 2027 with accommodation provided and training offered. A safety-first mindset and GPS/record-keeping skills are essential for field-based work.

Qualifications

• Class 1 driver''s licence is required.
• Experience operating a 4WD/Light Utility Vehicle is desirable.
• Strong focus on health and safety and risk management.
• Ability to work away from home; accommodation provided.

Responsibilities

• Trap, bait, survey and monitor pest animals (possum, rabbits, ferrets).
• Manage pest plants (gorse, broom, wilding pines).
• Travel to various locations; Cromwell as home base.
• Maintain accurate records with GPS/handheld devices.

Skills

GPS proficiency

Record keeping

Safety awareness

Independence and teamwork

Education

Class 1 driver's licence

First aid certificate

NZQA Unit standards in 4WD/LUV/Chainsaw

Growsafe certificate

Controlled Substance Licence or Approved Handler Certificate

Job description

Get paid to work outdoors, travel the South Island, and help protect New Zealand's environment. Training provided for the right person.

At Downer we plan, create and sustain. Downer is the leading provider of integrated services in Australia and New Zealand. Through trusted relationships and world leading insight we work closely with our customers to design, build and sustain assets, infrastructure, and facilities.

Te k\u014bwhiringa | The Opportunity

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.

Nga p\u016bkenga matua | Important Skills

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.

Minimum skills requirements:

• 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)

Other desirable qualifications:

• 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

Want to know more about what it is like to work at Downer? Then head to our People Site here!

Downer Group is an employer that acknowledges and embraces the importance of our people's diverse experiences, talents, and cultures. As an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from everyone.