Resource Economist - Scion

RESOURCE ECONOMIST

Full-time - 40 hours per week | 1 year fixed term position

Based in Christchurch or Rotorua

Who are we?

Scion specialises in research, science and technology development for the forestry industry, wood products and wood-derived materials. We lead new technology development for renewables, bioproducts and energy and the establishment of a broader-based bioeconomy.

About the role:                                                                                                         

An exciting opportunity is now available for an Economist (Resource Economics) to join our economics team. The successful candidate will lead and deliver quantitative economic research involving mathematical modelling, mathematical programming and statistical analysis, within a high-calibre multi-disciplinary team.  

You will be working within a high-performing team with a strong focus on scientific excellence and impact. You will lead and collaborate on the development of integrated research; to predict how changes in policy, technology or other external factors, such as climate change, impact present- and future economies derived from all forest types. You will work with researchers in our team to examine the impacts of change scenarios and decision-making frameworks that influence the emergence of a new bioeconomy for New Zealand. You will build strong and enduring relationships with key customers, end-users, regulatory bodies, stakeholder communities, Iwi and international audiences to ensure research findings are adopted by government and stakeholders.

Key accountabilities:

• Conduct economic modelling for investment decisions in potential management techniques or new technology implementation within the forest sector.
• Support Scion's thought leadership on the economics of resource management and its alignments to Scion's strategy.
• Support Scion's understanding in innovative and end-user applicable and relevant science in resource economics.
• Understand and communicate the role of resource economics in the New Zealand primary sector in delivering profitable and sustainable sectors and the policy and legislative instruments such as GIA.
• Maintain up to date knowledge with current thinking related to resource economics to grow Scion to the forefront of innovation.

To be successful in this role, your skills and experience will include:

• A postgraduate degree in Economics, with a focus on economic modelling with relevance to policy development and analysis.
• An excellent understanding of mathematical modelling, mathematical programming and statistical analysis.
• Familiarity with: econometrics, risk modelling, land-use tools, behavioural models and climate change adaptation; spatial data; integration of mathematical modelling to regional or landscape scales using spatial analysis tools, e.g. ARC GIS.
• Prior experience in techno-economic modelling and economic feasibility studies
• A proven track record in delivering high quality science publications,
• Excellent collaborative and team working skills.
• Proven research planning, proposal development and project management experience.
• International experience, with networks in relevant research areas.
• A proven track record in revenue generation and project delivery.
• Outstanding communication and writing skills.
• Understanding of the policy and regulatory environment facing the New Zealand forestry and bioeconomy sectors.
• Proven experience working with end-users and clients.
• Capacity to develop and maintain effective external relationships with Māori leaders and entities.
• Highly collaborative and client-focused behaviours.

Why Scion?

We are home to creative science minds and have a vibrant culture ensuring employees can pursue innovation and excellence in their science delivery, right at the heart of New Zealand's Forest industry. Scion offers an enviable working environment with excellent work/life balance initiatives, we are proud to offer:

• A great career that enables positive outcomes for Aotearoa, New Zealand.
• Flexible work options including a 9-day fortnight.
• Continuous professional development.
• An enjoyable collaborative culture.
• A demonstrated commitment to Good Employer/EEO principles.
• See more benefits of working at Scion

Rate of Pay: $70,000 negotiable dependent on experience

Closing Date:  30 September 2022 

Please do not wait for the closing date to submit your application, as an appointment may be made before this date if a suitable candidate comes forward.

Come and join us!

For further information and to apply online, please refer to our website: www.scionresearch.com