Marine Ecology Technician - NIWA

NIWA is a dynamic research organisation and New Zealand's largest and pre-eminent provider of climate, freshwater, and marine science. Our core purpose is to enhance the economic value and sustainable management of New Zealand's aquatic resources and environments, to provide an understanding of climate and the atmosphere, and increase resilience to weather and climate hazards to improve safety and wellbeing of New Zealanders.

NIWA's marine ecology teams undertake research and consultancy services providing impartial scientific advice to inform managers, stakeholders, and Māori to underpin the sustainable management of New Zealand's marine ecosystems. In addition, we are involved in a wide range of collaborative projects with other NIWA teams, including biosecurity surveillance.

What we're looking for:

The purpose of this position is to provide advanced technical capability for research and consulting projects in fisheries, ecology, and biosecurity to inform marine ecosystem management. We seek a motivated marine science graduate with significant boat handling and diving experience to work as an effective team member across a number of projects. You will be responsible for a diverse range of tasks that include planning and leading the delivery of marine field work: managing and analysing ecological survey data; maintaining critical kit to assure its safe performance; and assisting in the development of boating and diving capability through the mentoring and training of colleagues. 

What you will bring:

To be successful in this position you will have a degree in the marine sciences and good knowledge of the New Zealand marine environment. You'll have advanced boating and diving experience, supported by relevant qualifications, and with your excellent practical skills you'll be a natural for leading coastal field surveys. You'll also have proficiency across a range of computing and data handling skills and be able to contribute to research proposals and reports. You'll be a top team player and have great communication skills, a flexible approach to a dynamic work environment and a can-do attitude to solving problems.

A bit about the position:

This position is based at NIWA's Bream Bay site in Ruakākā, Northland. As well as being New Zealand's principal aquaculture research facility, the site also plays host to members of NIWA's Fisheries & Marine Ecology group. In this position, you'll join your local work mates in regular trips to work with teams from Auckland and other NIWA offices, typically involving travel to other parts of the North Island for up to two weeks at a time.

Along with competitive remuneration, we offer a wide range of benefits and the opportunity to be part of a nationwide team of marine science specialists. The position involves working a 37.5-hour week.

We don't expect perfection in our candidates - if you think you have what it takes, but don't meet every point referenced in the position description, please still get in touch!

NIWA offers flexible working options (e.g., part-time, flexible start and finish times). We are happy to discuss potential flexible options for this position at the interview stage.

NIWA promotes the importance and value of an inclusive and diverse workforce, including the Rainbow Community, and pride ourselves on being a family-friendly and supportive workplace.