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
Are you passionate about community safety and resilience? Do you want to be part of a team that helps the West Coast region prepare for and respond to emergencies? Join us as an Emergency Management Officer for Westland and play a crucial role in ensuring our communities are ready to face any challenge.
About Us At the West Coast Regional Council, we are committed to building strong, resilient communities. As part of the West Coast Emergency Management (WCEM) team, you will be working across the region, helping to coordinate emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Our mission is to keep our communities safe and ensure that everyone is equipped with the tools and knowledge to handle emergencies. We value teamwork, proactive thinking, and a strong sense of responsibility in everything we do.
Position Purpose As the Emergency Management Officer (EMO) for Westland, you will be responsible for supporting emergency preparedness, coordinating response efforts, and ensuring effective recovery in the face of emergencies. Your role will involve working with various community stakeholders, government agencies, and emergency services to build resilience and enhance the West Coast's ability to respond to crises.
What you will be doing:
Supporting the development of community response and emergency management plans.
Coordinating response and recovery activities during emergencies, including EOC operations.
Leading training and exercises to ensure our teams are ready when needed.
Building strong relationships with iwi, emergency services, community groups, and local authorities.
Delivering public education programmes to help communities prepare for emergencies.
Desired Skills and Experience
What you will bring:
A tertiary qualification in emergency management or relevant experience (minimum 5 years).
CIMS training (or equivalent) and a full NZ driver’s licence.
Strong communication and planning skills, with a calm, organised approach in challenging situations.
A natural ability to engage and support others—whether it's the public, partners, or internal teams.
Join us to make a difference: Your work will directly impact the safety and resilience of the Westland community. If you are ready to take on a dynamic and impactful role in emergency management, apply now to join the West Coast Regional Council and help us build stronger, safer communities.
Among the many advantages of living and working for the West Coast Regional Council we offer a PSA Collective Employments Agreement.
