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
Vector Control Services is a small multi-functional business unit of the West Coast Regional Council. It conducts a range of activities such as pest, plant, and animal control for the West Coast Regional Council, as well as the public sector on a cost recovery basis. Its primary focus is possum control for TB Free NZ and the delivery of aerial operations.
Be Part of Predator Free West Coast!
Do you love the outdoors, care deeply about conservation, and want to make a real difference on the West Coast? Join our Vector Control Services team, where we are on a mission to remove possums and reduce predators on the West Coast.
This is a casual role, working on an as required basis, perfect for someone passionate about the environment, pest control, and working in the field. If you thrive in rugged landscapes and want to be part of a close-knit, dedicated team, we would love to hear from you!
What You Will Do
As a Casual Field Operator, you will be hands-on in the field, helping to deliver our predator control programme effectively and efficiently. Your work will include:
Installing, maintaining, and servicing traps and other project infrastructure
Assisting with the aerial control programme when needed
Keeping accurate records and using GPS and field apps for data collection
Helping to clear roads, cycleways, and walking tracks as part of the project
Contributing ideas to improve pest control methods and embracing new technologies
Desired Skills and Experience
What You Will Bring
✔️ A love for the outdoors and the ability to work in remote and rugged environments
✔️ A full NZ driver’s licence (bonus if you can drive manual vehicles)
✔️ A Controlled Substance Licence is essential for this role
✔️ Experience in bush work, trapping, or pest control (or a willingness to learn!)
✔️ Strong teamwork skills and a positive, can-do attitude
✔️ The ability to work independently and get the job done
✔️ First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
✔️ Experience using GPS, radios, and data collection apps (an advantage)
