Health Policy Advisor: Research, Analysis & Stakeholder Impact

New Zealand Government; Wellington; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP is seeking a Senior or Principal Ecologist to join our Christchurch team as part of the national ecology group. The role focuses on leading ecological projects across freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems, providing technical leadership and mentoring to staff, and expanding our ecology services in New Zealand and beyond.

You will work with clients and multidisciplinary teams to deliver high‑quality outcomes, grow our practice, and contribute to sustainable, long‑term environmental solutions.

Qualifications

• Requires relevant tertiary qualification.
• Ideal 9+ years of professional ecological experience.
• Strong technical, analytical and project management skills.
• Demonstrated experience leading ecological projects and working in multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to collaborate with clients and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead ecological projects from field surveys to reporting.
• Provide technical leadership and expert advice on ecological work.
• Mentor and support early career ecologists.
• Collaborate with clients, stakeholders and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Contribute to leadership and growth of the ecology team.
• Build and maintain client relationships and identify new opportunities.

Skills

Ecology

Technical leadership

Project management

Data analysis

Education

Tertiary qualification

Job description

Senior or Principal Ecologist

Wellington WSP USA

Posted 4 days ago

Job Description

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs?
At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.
As the premier design, engineering and environmental consultancy in Aotearoa New Zealand, WSP exists to future‑proof our cities and environment. We are proud to have the blueprint of Aotearoa New Zealand in our DNA and our 2,500 expert professionals in 35 offices are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long‑lasting impacts on the communities we serve.

Senior / Principal Ecologist - Christchurch

Ready to lead ecological projects and support the growth of a high‑performing team?
WSP is seeking a Senior or Principal Ecologist to join our Christchurch office as part of our national ecology team. WSP is seeking an experienced ecology professional with expertise in freshwater and/or terrestrial ecology to join our Christchurch team. This role offers the opportunity to lead impactful local, national, and international projects, provide technical leadership and mentoring, and contribute to the continued growth of our ecology services across New Zealand and beyond.

About the role:

• Lead and manage ecological projects, from field surveys to data analysis and reporting
• Provide technical leadership and expert advice on a range of projects
• Mentor and support early career professionals
• Collaborate with clients, stakeholders, industry partners and multidisciplinary project teams
• Contribute to the leadership, culture, and ongoing development of the ecology team
• Build and maintain client relationships and identify opportunities to grow our ecology services

About you

• Relevant tertiary qualification and ideally 9+ years' professional experience
• Certified Environmental Practitioner (CEnvP) - Ecology Specialist, or working towards it
• Strong technical, analytical, and project management skills
• Demonstrated experience leading ecological projects and working as part of multidisciplinary teams.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively and build relationships at all levels
• Commitment to WSP's guiding principles: valuing people, fostering collaboration, and challenging the status quo

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.
WSP NZ has proudly earned its place among the top five employers to work for in Aotearoa New Zealand, as recognised in Randstad's latest employer survey. In addition, WSP has been listed as one of TIME's 2023 top 100 companies globally for employees.
Join our close‑knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.