Wallaby Programme Lead — Biosecurity

Environment Canterbury; Timaru; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Environment Canterbury in Timaru is seeking an experienced biosecurity professional to lead the Wallaby Programme across South Canterbury, focusing on containment and community collaboration to reduce spread. You will work with MPI's National Wallaby Eradication Programme, landowners, and contractors to protect biodiversity and support sustainable land use.

You’ll balance strategic programme leadership with hands-on delivery, provide expert pest management advice, coordinate inspection and QA

Qualifications

• Significant experience in biosecurity, pest management or a related field.
• Strong project, contract and budget management experience.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• The ability to provide technical leadership and practical advice.
• A collaborative approach and commitment to delivering environmental outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Leading specialist wallaby control projects and operations
• Managing operational budgets, contracts and programme performance
• Providing expert technical advice on pest and invasive species management
• Coordinating inspection programmes and quality assurance activities
• Mentoring Biosecurity Officers and supporting capability development

Skills

Biosecurity expertise

Project management

Contract management

Budget management

Stakeholder engagement

Technical leadership

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Ecology / Plant Science / Biology or related discipline

Equivalent experience

Full driver's licence

Job description

Environment Canterbury in Timaru is seeking an experienced biosecurity professional to lead the Wallaby Programme across South Canterbury, focusing on containment and community collaboration to reduce spread. You will work with MPI's National Wallaby Eradication Programme, landowners, and contractors to protect biodiversity and support sustainable land use.

You’ll balance strategic programme leadership with hands-on delivery, provide expert pest management advice, coordinate inspection and QA