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 a Principal Compliance Advisor - Biosecurity to join our Environmental Implementation team on permanent, full- time, (37.5 hours per week) basis, in our busy Dunedin or Alexandra offices.

The purpose of this position is to develop the strategic technical direction, and management for the implementation of the regulatory compliance programme, alongside the Team Leader Biosecurity Compliance, as required to meet the objectives of the Otago Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP), for the Otago Region.

As a Principal Compliance Advisor - Biosecurity, you will be responsible for:

• Developing advice and taking part in projects to support regional biosecurity compliance policy and plan change work
• Supporting the biosecurity team in the development of educational material to achieve RPMP objectives
• Ensuring compliance processes are up-to date and followed through the development and implementation of quality assurance processes
• Providing specialist technical guidance and oversight to biosecurity compliance activity across the region
• Undertaking public liaison and education on Biosecurity matters

If you are keen on providing technical advice and working with the community on biosecurity compliance, then this is the role for you!

About You

• A tertiary qualification in science, policy, law, regulatory compliance or other relevant discipline
• 10+ years’ experience in roles with relevant experience in the field of Compliance, and enforcement
• Experience in process, policy, and plan development and associated implementation
• Understanding of tangata whenua and Te Tiriti o Waitangi issues
• Ability to work in a complex environment, deal with ambiguity and across functions

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:

• Flexible work opportunities
• Life Insurance
• 5 weeks annual leave
• Superannuation
• An annual wellbeing programme
• Competitive remuneration packages
• Development opportunities

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.

Please note the salary ranges depending on experience. See below for details

Applications close: Sunday 11 January 2026

For further information, please contact human.resources@orc.govt.nz