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 Project Delivery Specialist - Freshwater and Biodiversity to join our Environmental Implementation team on a 2-year fixed term full time (37.5 hours per week) basis, in our busy Dunedin office.

The purpose of the Project Delivery Specialist is to restore and enhance Otago's freshwater quality and biodiversity through the development and delivery of programmes of work and specific projects.

As a Project Delivery Specialist - Freshwater and Biodiversity, you will be responsible for:

• Designing and developing projects and associated project plans and determining project objectives, scope, timelines, costs, risks and resource requirements
• Developing strong and collaborative partnerships with mana whenua
• Actively and regularly engaging with internal and external stakeholders
• Taking an enterprise view across the organisation to monitor, manage, and escalate programme and project risks, issues, interdependencies, and change release
• Working with the Team Leader to identify and implement changes and improvements to effectiveness and efficiency, including processes and systems

If you are interested in leading projects and having an impact, then this is the role for you!

About You

Our ideal candidate will have:

• Tertiary Project Management Qualification (or equivalent level of experience)
• 7+ years' experience in planning and delivering successful programmes and projects within complex settings
• Proven experience in stakeholder and relationship management, including sound abilities to effectively influence and negotiate at all levels
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong organisational skills and processes

A full job descripton can be found here - Project Delivery Specialist Position Description Fixed Term.pdf

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, alongside us, regardless of their background.

To support our diverse and capable team, we're pleased to offer enhanced benefits such as:

• Flexible work opportunities
• Life Insurance
• 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.

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:Monday 20^th April 2026

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