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
We are now looking for a Principal Natural Hazards Analyst to join our team and lead our hazard and risk management mahi across the region. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with deep technical expertise and a passion for community resilience to step into a leadership role that truly makes a difference.
About the role As our Principal Natural Hazards Analyst, you will lead the coordination, analysis, and strategic management of natural hazards and multi-hazard risks across the West Coast. You will bring scientific leadership and sound technical advice to support Council decisions and community planning — from emergency management to infrastructure, land use, and climate adaptation.
You will be part of a supportive, multidisciplinary team and work closely with iwi, local authorities, scientists, central government, and our communities to ensure hazard information is robust, current, and accessible. You will champion innovation, foster partnerships, and help embed resilience thinking across everything we do.
This role is all about turning high-quality science into practical, well-communicated advice that keeps our region safe and well-informed — now and into the future.
What you will be doing
Leading hazard risk investigations and ensuring spatial and technical datasets are current and publicly accessible
Preparing and delivering robust multi-hazard risk assessments and management plans
Supporting emergency preparedness and planning, and integrating hazard risk into Council’s statutory functions
Representing Council at public forums, iwi hui, and technical workshops, communicating science in clear, relatable ways
Mentoring colleagues and supporting scientific excellence across the team
Building partnerships and helping shape the Council’s approach to resilience and risk management in a changing climate
Desired Skills and Experience
What we are looking for We are after someone with a solid scientific background and strong leadership skills — someone who is collaborative, thoughtful, and committed to public good.
To thrive in this role, you will bring:
A tertiary qualification in earth science, engineering, resource planning, or similar
At least five years’ experience in natural hazards assessment or resilience planning
Proven ability to lead complex investigations and deliver technically sound, practical advice
Familiarity with applying hazard science in local government or public sector settings
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences
Experience engaging with iwi, community, and external stakeholders
A curious mind, a steady hand, and a passion for making science meaningful
Why join us? At West Coast Regional Council, we are building a team of great people who care about the work they do, the communities they serve, and each other. We offer:
A genuinely supportive and flexible work environment
Ongoing professional development and learning opportunities
The chance to live and work in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions
Strong relationships, meaningful mahi, and the opportunity to leave a legacy
If you are ready to lead with impact and help shape a safer, more resilient West Coast, we would love to hear from you.
