Field Operator - Animal Pest | West Coast

Rentokil Initial; Hokitika; On-site; NZD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental services company in New Zealand is seeking a Field Operator to engage in large-scale pest control in the beautiful landscapes of the West Coast. The role offers hands-on experience and the opportunity to work with a supportive team. Ideal candidates are physically fit and enjoy outdoor work. Full training provided, and meals and accommodation during work trips are covered.

Benefits

Competitive hourly rate

Shared accommodation and meal allowance

Southern Cross Health Insurance

National career progression opportunities

Job security with consistent workload

On-the-job training and support

Qualifications

• High level of physical fitness and ability to navigate challenging terrain.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Able to work independently in the field.
• A strong commitment to health and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Conduct large-scale pest control across rugged landscapes.
• Use trapping and toxin deployment methods.
• Work in a team and contribute ideas.

Skills

Physical fitness

Ability to work outdoors

Health and safety commitment

Positive work attitude

Time management

Education

Experience in pest control or biosecurity

Full clean NZ driver's license

First Aid Certificate

ATV, LUV or 4WD qualifications

GrowSafe or Controlled Substance Licence

NZ Firearms Licence

Chainsaw NZQA unit standards

Job description

Rentokil Rural & Environmental Services combines experience spanning diverse landscapes, from high-country farms to dense native bush. Whether it’s predator control, ungulate management, or invasive plant control, we deploy innovative, sustainable, and effective pest control strategies to meet the unique needs of our clients.

A key strength of our expertise lies in our end-to-end project management service, where we leverage our experience in successfully managing complex projects of all sizes, customised to fit the specific needs of each landscape.

About The Role:

This isn’t your average 9-to-5 and that’s exactly the point!

Out here, you're not just filling a role, you’re part of a tight-knit crew where your ideas matter, you and your work make a real difference, and your weekends are wide open for everything the mighty West Coast has to offer. Think tramping, hunting, fishing, surfing or just kicking back with a good coffee and an even better view.

As a Field Operator, you’ll be on the front line of large-scale pest control across some of New Zealand’s most rugged and iconic landscapes. You’ll use trapping and toxin deployment methods to target pests like ungulates, wallabies, and possums. In return, you’ll gain hands-on experience, work toward industry qualifications, and be part of a team that values grit, reliability, and getting the job done.

Location Details:

Based on the West Coast of the South Island, you’ll get to explore New Zealand’s wildest back country, from coastal plains to remote mountain bush. Expect to be away Monday to Friday, with accommodation and meals covered. Occasionally, you may be away longer (up to 10 days), but you’ll be rewarded with incredible experiences and a tight-knit team vibe.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Competitive hourly rate
• Shared accommodation and meal allowance while working away
• Southern Cross Health Insurance
• National career progression opportunities
• Job security with a consistent workload
• On-the-job training and support

What We Need From You:

• High level of physical fitness and the ability to navigate challenging terrain, including mountainous areas and the wet West Coast bush. This role is not for the faint-hearted
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather
• Able to work away from home for the working week
• Able to adhere to and have a strong commitment to health and safety standards
• Positive work attitude and a great work ethic.
• Able to work independently in the field and manage time efficiently

Preferred Qualifications (not mandatory):

• Previous experience or qualifications in pest control or biosecurity work.
• Full, clean NZ drivers license
• First Aid Certificate
• ATV, LUV, or 4WD qualifications
• GrowSafe or Controlled Substance Licence
• NZ Firearms Licence
• Chainsaw use NZQA unit standards or related training

Please note that applicants must have the right to live and work permanently in New Zealand. Successful candidates must complete a pre-employment assessment, including medical, reference, and criminal background checks, meeting Rentokil Initial's satisfactory criteria.

About us:

At Rentokil Rural & Environmental Services, we make a positive mark on New Zealand’s landscapes, understanding ecosystems, committing to sustainable practices, delivering long-term environmental solutions and using effective pest and plant pest management. Every project benefits future generations. From planning to execution and reporting, our work aligns with client goals and makes a real impact on the ground.

We hold strong to our values of Service, Relationships and Teamwork. What truly sets us apart is our people. We are a friendly and supportive team, driven by a passion to help protect people, enhance lives and preserve our planet, every day.