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
At the West Coast Regional Council, we are proud of our role as environmental guardians for one of the most unique and ruggedly beautiful parts of Aotearoa. We are on the lookout for a highly skilled Principal RMA Investigator to join our friendly and committed Regulatory & Policy Team. This role is all about protecting the environment and ensuring our region’s rules are followed with fairness, consistency, and professionalism.
About the role As our Principal RMA Investigator, you will be the go-to person for leading complex investigations into potential breaches of the Resource Management Act (RMA) and other legislation. You will respond to pollution complaints, undertake compliance monitoring, collect evidence, and manage enforcement actions—working to safeguard the environmental health of our region.
You will play a key role in maintaining relationships with consent holders, assessing environmental data, and making informed decisions that lead to meaningful outcomes. Whether it is investigating an unauthorised discharge, supporting a prosecution, or mentoring other team members, this role offers variety, challenge, and real impact.
You will also be part of our oil spill response team, helping to protect our marine and inland waterways when incidents occur.
Desired Skills and Experience
What you will bring
A relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent experience in environmental compliance, investigation, or a related field.
Proven experience in regulatory enforcement and investigations—ideally involving the RMA or similar legislation.
Experience working with environmental data and undertaking site-based sampling and assessments.
A thorough and methodical approach—you know how to run a robust investigation and write clear, defensible reports.
Confidence to work with the public in high-stakes situations, always maintaining professionalism and empathy.
Excellent judgement, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to operate independently.
Experience with prosecutions and a solid understanding of environmental legislation, natural systems, and case law will be a bonus.
Why work with us? At the West Coast Regional Council, you will join a team that truly cares about the work we do and the people we work with. We offer flexible work arrangements, great development opportunities, and the chance to live and work in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular and untouched regions.
Ready to apply? If you are a seasoned investigator with a passion for protecting the environment, and you are ready to bring your skills to a small but mighty regional team, we would love to hear from you.
Among the many advantages of living and working for the West Coast Regional Council we offer a PSA Collective Employments Agreement.
