West Coast Regional Council – Greymouth, South Island
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.
Key Responsibilities
Planning & Reporting:
Help maintain statutory and strategic civil defence plans that comply with the CDEM Act 2002. Monitor and develop community response plans to ensure they are effective and up to date.
Operational Support:
Provide operational support during emergency events by receiving warnings, activating emergency operations, and supporting the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). Work with local and Group Recovery Managers to ensure smooth operations in times of crisis.
Community Resilience:
Foster strong relationships with local government, iwi, emergency services, and community groups to ensure a coordinated response to emergencies. Work with the community to improve their knowledge of emergency preparedness.
Capability Development:
Lead training and development initiatives for emergency personnel, volunteers, and council staff to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills to respond effectively to emergencies. Coordinate exercises to test operational readiness and improve emergency management systems.
Public Education & Training:
Develop and deliver public education programmes that promote emergency preparedness in the community. Train EOC personnel and volunteers on emergency response systems and procedures.
Person Specification
Qualifications/Experience
Tertiary qualification in emergency management or at least five years of relevant experience.
Completed Coordinated Incident Management System (CIMS) training (or similar).
Full New Zealand driver's license.
Experience in emergency management, community development, or a related field.
Proven ability to engage and communicate with a wide range of stakeholders.
Demonstrated planning, coordination, and decision-making skills, particularly in emergency situations.
Skills/Attributes
Strong relationship-building and community engagement skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to simplify complex information.
Organised, with great time-management and the ability to work under pressure.
Proactive problem-solver with attention to detail.
Able to work autonomously and as part of a team.
Digital literacy and competence in relevant emergency management systems.
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.
To apply for this role or to read the full job description please go to our careers page.
Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work permit.
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