At the Otago Regional Council (ORC), our mission is protecting, connecting and enhancing Otago's environment, now and for the future - Mou, moku, mo tatou, For you, for me, for us. To be sure we can deliver on our responsibilities, we are evolving as an organisation, and we're not overstating when we say we have some really big targets to reach. We need the right people, in the right roles, to help us to get there.
We think Otago's a pretty special place. It covers a vast area - the third largest local government region in New Zealand. Those who call Otago home enjoy access to mountains, coastal lowlands, dramatic rivers, and wild beaches. Our environment here is part of who we are, and at ORC, we work each day to look after it.
The Opportunity
We are looking for an Engagement Specialist to join our Engineering on a permanent, full time (37.5 hours per week) basis, in our busy Dunedin office. While this role is based in Dunedin, we welcome applications from those outside of Dunedin, if you bring the right qualities or a fresh perspective, we’d love to hear from you!
The purpose of this position is to support the ORC Engineering Team with engagement activities across all of the teams’ functions and responsibilities. It will include lead and coordinate the team’s internal and external engagement and communication functions to provide the Engineering team, Management, Council, the community, internal and external stakeholders with a consistent, professional engagement experience that sounds visibility and understanding of all ORC Engineering’s work.
As an Engagement Specialist, you will be responsible for:
· Developing and maintaining relationships with internal ORC teams to provide links to the communication and engagement functions
· Planning engagement events such as public meetings, drop-in sessions and workshops
· Coordinating and preparing communication and engagement materials for use at events or through other media
· Facilitating the operation and function of the Scheme Liaison groups
· Proactively establish and maintain networks and relationships with strategic external stakeholders to support the delivery of community outcomes
If you have excellent communication and engagement skills and enjoy working with a variety of stakeholders, then this is the role for you!
About You
Our ideal candidate will have:
· A tertiary qualification (Bachelor level or above) in a relevant field, or extensive equivalent experience in Engagement roles
· 5+ years’ experience in stakeholder engagement/relationship management at an operational level
· Experience an Infrastructure operations environment
· Proven experience in successful delivery within a complex and evolving environment
· Effective facilitation skills
What we offer
We recognise and celebrate diversity within Team ORC and are committed to providing a work environment that supports inclusion and equal opportunities. We actively encourage applications from anyone who will live our values of MANA- We influence with respect and integrity, TIKA- We do the right thing and do things right and AROHA- We show that that we care.
To support our diverse and capable team, we're pleased to offer enhanced benefits such as:
How to Apply
If you meet the above criteria, we welcome your application, including your CV and cover letter outlining why you are the person for this role via the Apply button.
Please note. We don't always work to fixed closing dates and may start considering and interviewing candidates as their applications are received, so we encourage you to apply early.
At ORC, we value diversity, and the different strengths people bring. We can provide flexible recruitment options such as virtual interviews, online kōrero, or whānau-inclusive interviews. If you would like to have whānau support with you during your interview, just let us know—we welcome it!
Learn more about who we are — join our online whānau! Follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to see what life at ORC is like.
All candidates require the right to work in New Zealand.
Applications close: Friday 23rd January 2026
For further information, please contact human.resources@orc.govt.nz