Biosecurity Team Leader

Lead a dedicated biosecurity team protecting New Zealand's unique environment while working in some of the South Island's most spectacular backcountry locations.

At Downer we plan, create and sustain. Downer is the leading provider of integrated services in Australia and New Zealand. Through trusted relationships and world leading insight we work closely with our customers to design, build and sustain assets, infrastructure, and facilities.

Te kōwhiringa | The Opportunity

Downer's Biosecurity Team is an industry leader in the implementation and operation of pest management programmes. Our vision is to maintain a sustainable pest control industry through employing the right people, providing them the right resources and supporting them with ongoing training and development.

We have a great opportunity to combine your love of the outdoors and being paid, by joining our Southern South Island team on a fixed term basis.

We are looking for a Leading Hand to expertly perform pest control tasks while organising a small team to lead them in completing all animal and/or plant pest control tasks assigned, and ensure all customer and company targets (safety, quality and productivity) are met.

This role is primarily based in remote back country environments and will often be physically challenging, however when required the Leading Hand will be delegated to perform tasks that may have to be completed in the office. A high level of fitness is essential.

The Leading Hand will work closely with the Regional Supervisor and Field Operations Leader to influence and drive productivities to maximise output while maintaining respect and trust of the wider team.

This fixed-term position is expected to last until June 2027, with the possibility of extension based on project needs.

A bit about the role

In this exciting role, you will be responsible for leading a small team to deliver field work on animal and plant pest control operations in the SouthernSouth Island, ensuring we deliver on our contract requirements.

Being a self-motivated and energetic person is essential as you'll be expected to lead by example ensuring your small team delivers on its required targets completing trapping, baiting, surveying and monitoring of pest animals, or controlling pest plants such as gorse, broom and other invasive species.

The Leading Hand will be required to:

1. Plan, organise, direct and control activities of a small workgroup
2. Complete all relevant site documentation on a daily basis
3. Monitor operations and clearly report progress to their one-up manager
4. Deputise for a Field Operation Leader or Supervisor if required.

As you will be spending long periods in the field, you'll need a focus on safety and risk management. You'll couple this with the ability to use GPS and handheld recording devices and be able to maintain accurate records. Training will be provided to the successful applicant but being able to maintain accurate records is critical.

Nga pūkenga matua | Important Skills

It is essential to have an understanding of working in a rural environment coupled with speciality experience in either pest plant or pest animal management.

You'll bring along with you:

• People management skills
• A passion and knowledge of the outdoors
• Class 1 Full New Zealand driver's licence
• Experience operating a 4 Wheel Drive, Light Utility Vehicle and/or motorcycle
• First aid certificate (beneficial)
• A strong focus on health and safety i.e. keeping you and your work mates safe
• The ability to work away from home for extended periods of time (accommodation and other benefits will be provided)
• A Controlled Substance Licence (CSL), Approved Handler Certificate for relevant substances, and a firearms licence is preferable but not essential, however, you must be able to obtain these licences

Ko te take ka parekareka e koe ki te mahi ki kōnei | Why you will enjoy working here

Downer is committed to helping our people succeed by providing the support, development, and benefits they need to thrive. When you join us, you'll enjoy:

• Free access to Marram health benefits and discounted holiday accommodation across New Zealand
• All required PPE, safety equipment, and work clothing provided
• A $500 employee referral bonus for introducing great people to our team
• Ongoing training, development, and career progression opportunities, with internal promotion strongly encouraged
• Access to a range of additional employee benefits and discounts

Me pēhea ki te tono | How to apply

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, click Apply Now to submit your application! Reference : 735326

We are committed to a safe working environment for everyone - all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre-employment drug test, medical and a Ministry of Justice check prior to starting employment. If you need support with this requirement, please talk to our team.