The West Coast Region (Te Kaunihera Whakakotahi o Te Tai Poutini) extends over a distance of 600 km from Kahurangi Point in the north to Awarua Point in the south. The fifth largest region in New Zealand, it is bounded in the east by the Southern Alps and in the west by the Tasman Sea. Nature has endowed the Region with a spectacular environment, with over 80 per cent of the land area under Department of Conservation stewardship.
Within this vast natural setting, the West Coast Regional Council plays a pivotal role in managing the environment from an economic, social, cultural and sustainability perspective. This ensures the community and its future generations will continue to appreciate the work opportunities, environment, spectacular outdoors and life balance offered in this stunning part of New Zealand.
Job Description
Make a real difference for our communities, before, during, and after emergencies.
At the West Coast Regional Council, we are all about protecting what makes this region special – and that includes the safety, wellbeing, and resilience of our people. We are on the lookout for someone passionate about community-led emergency management to take on the important role of Emergency Management Officer – Welfare & Recovery.
This is your chance to lead and shape the way we support communities through emergencies – from careful planning and preparedness, right through to recovery and healing. In this role, you will help ensure that when disaster strikes, our people get the help they need, when they need it most.
You will take the lead on welfare and recovery across the region – building strong partnerships with iwi, community organisations, support agencies, and other emergency services. You will also drive recovery planning and delivery, helping people and places bounce back stronger after emergency events.
What you will be doing:
Leading the West Coast Welfare Coordination Group and driving collaborative regional planning
Championing the welfare function in the Emergency Coordination Centre during a response
Supporting recovery at local and regional levels, ensuring it’s people-focused, inclusive, and effective
Guiding and mentoring stakeholders to build their own capability and resilience
Bringing policies and plans to life, aligning with national frameworks and community needs
Taking part in the WCEM duty officer roster – because emergencies do not just happen 9 to 5!
Desired Skills and Experience
What you will bring:
At least five years' experience in emergency management, emergency services, or a related field
You will ideally have attained, or are working towards, a tertiary qualification in emergency management, or related field
A sound understanding of the CDEM sector, including community vulnerabilities and how to support at-risk groups
CIMS 4 and/or ITF Intermediate qualifications, with strong operational experience
A calm, confident approach with excellent coordination, communication, and people skills
The ability to build trust and strong relationships across diverse communities and agencies
A valid full NZ driver licence – and a willingness to respond when needed
Why join us? At West Coast Regional Council, you will join a friendly, down-to-earth team who care about each other and the work we do. We offer flexibility, meaningful mahi, and the chance to be part of a region where community spirit runs deep.
Apply now and help us build a stronger, more resilient future for our communities.
Among the many advantages of living and working for the WCRC we offer a PSA Collective Employment Agreement.
