Environmental Advisor | Upper South Island

KiwiRail; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A national infrastructure organisation is seeking an Environmental Advisor based in Christchurch. You will manage environmental compliance and risk management across various projects. The ideal candidate has experience in environmental management and knowledge of New Zealand’s environmental legislation. This role offers a competitive salary, supportive team environment, and opportunities for career growth in sustainability.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Great workplace benefits

Opportunities for learning and development

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experience in environmental management, monitoring, or compliance, ideally in transport or construction.
• Confidence working on-site and engaging with various stakeholders.
• Flexibility to travel for site-based work.

Responsibilities

• Provide support to ensure environmental compliance and risk management.
• Manage environmental risks across construction and operational projects.
• Collaborate with project teams and contribute to audits and site inspections.

Skills

Environmental management experience

Knowledge of NZ environmental legislation

Strong communication skills

Strong organisational skills

Stakeholder engagement

Proactive, solutions-focused approach

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification in Environmental Science or related field

Job description

Environmental Advisor | Upper South Island

Position Description

• Help protect what matters – shape a greener future on the tracks with KiwiRail
• Permanent full-time role
• Based in Christchurch

He kōrero mō mātou | About us

At KiwiRail, we connect people, goods, and communities—safely and sustainably. Our legacy of over 150 years is built on keeping Aotearoa moving while caring for the land and its people.

We’re proud to be part of a team that values collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement. Our environmental work supports the safe delivery of key rail operations and infrastructure projects that benefit future generations.

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role

As Environmental Advisor based in Christchurch, you’ll provide practical support to ensure KiwiRail meets its environmental compliance and risk management obligations. You’ll work across a range of activities—construction, maintenance, and operational projects—applying your expertise to manage environmental risks, support training, and contribute to audits and site inspections.

You'll collaborate closely with project teams, council staff, and iwi representatives, and play a key part in implementing KiwiRail’s Environmental Management System. This is a role where every day looks different, and your advice helps us operate in a way that respects both people and place.

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What you will bring

We’re looking for someone with:

• Experience in environmental management, monitoring, or compliance (ideally in transport, construction, or infrastructure)
• Knowledge of New Zealand’s environmental legislation and regulatory frameworks
• Confidence working on-site and engaging with a range of stakeholders
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach
• Strong communication and organisation skills
• A relevant tertiary qualification in Environmental Science, Planning, Resource Management, or a related field

You’ll also need:

• A current full New Zealand Driver’s Licence
• Flexibility to travel as required for site-based work
• To pass a pre-employment medical and drug screen

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you

• Competitive salary and great workplace benefits
• Opportunity to build your environmental career within a national infrastructure organisation
• Supportive team environment where safety and people come first
• Contribution to projects that shape New Zealand’s transport future
• Access to learning and development pathways at KiwiRail

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to make a difference?

If you're passionate about protecting the environment and want to work where your advice makes a visible impact, this is your chance. Apply now and join KiwiRail in delivering sustainable rail for future generations.

Applications close 7 October 2025