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 Manager to join our Policy and Planning team on a fixed term, part time (up to 22.5 hours per week) or on a causal basis, in our busy Dunedin office.

We are also open to considering contractor applications for this role.

The purpose of this position is to provide high quality programme and project management expertise to ensure the successful implementation of the new planning system across all relevant teams within ORC.

As a Project Manager, you will be responsible for:

• Providing day to day project management and support of the programme to implement the new resource management legislation
• Developing and managing a detailed programme schedule and work plan
• Coordinating multi-disciplinary teams of internal and external resources to achieve agreed deliverables
• Meeting reporting objectives as required by ORC systems and processes
• Building and maintaining effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders and project governance

If you have strong project management skills and keen to work collaboratively, then this is the role for you!

About You

Our ideal candidate will have:

• Project management qualification or equivalent project management experience
• 5+ years’ experience in project management, with at least some experience in programme management
• Sound project issues management and risk management experience
• Ability to work in a complex environment, deal with ambiguity and across functions

A full job description can be found here – Position+description+-+Project+Manager+(Policy).docx

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! Check out our website Managing Otago’s environment | Otago Regional Council to see what life at ORC is like.

All candidates require the right to work in New Zealand.

Applications close: Tuesday 4 August 2026

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