Full job description Job Title: Science Lead Tiakina Kauri Management Agency
Role type: Full time, Permanent
Location: Wellington, Whangarei, or Auckland
Salary band C: $117,035 to $136,961 depending on skills and experience
Korero mo te Turanga - About the Role
This is an opportunity to help lead and shape the future of Kauri protection through leadership of collaborative, innovative research, and science-based decision-making. The Tiakina Kauri Management Agency is focused on protecting Kauri from the pathogen Phytophthora Agathidicida (Pa), which causes Kauri dieback disease, through surveillance, monitoring, and behaviour change.
If you're motivated to help lead the charge in protecting the kauri of Aotearoa, and work at the forefront protection of a taonga tree, we want to hear from you.
As the Science Lead at Tiakina Kauri Management Agency, you will oversee scientific research and technical initiatives supporting the National Plan under the Biosecurity Act.
The key responsibilities of this role include:
Being a knowledge broker, integrating Western science and matauranga Maori for evidence-based disease management.
Coordinated research efforts across CRIs, universities, Maori organisations and other providers to support Kauri forest health.
Promoting longer term strategic science that will help identify breakthrough knowledge in the fight against the pathogen and the disease.
Being able to collaborate with partners, mana whenua, and external providers to enhance data collection and support decision-making.
Leading teams to develop surveillance, monitoring, and remote sensing programs in collaboration with Maori, DOC, and Councils.
Applying scientific expertise to Kauri and Phytophthora Agathidicida, including policy and writing skills.
Working closely with iwi/hapu/whanau to develop national standards and processes for Kauri research.
You will travel to Northland 4-5 times per year and will need a driver licence.
Mou - About You
You are an enthusiastic and experienced science professional, dedicated to protecting New Zealand's unique biodiversity, particularly its iconic Kauri trees. Your expertise in research, biosecurity, and environmental science, combined with a deep understanding of forest health makes you an ideal fit for leading scientific efforts in Kauri protection. You will combine your science background with strong knowledge transfer and sound understanding of implementing operational research.
You will have:
A scientific qualification, ideally within the plant space but likely not focussed on kauri
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to translate complex scientific content into practical, everyday language. This will be one of your main focuses!
Proven experience working with both Maori and highly dedicated researchers
Experience networking and leading collaboration
A background in data analysis, GIS mapping and risk assessment for managing forest health
A generic understanding of biosecurity and/or conservation concepts and of the methods used to detect and identify Phytophthoras as they relate to the programme
Strong resilience with the ability to handle a role that is demanding and deals with difficult stakeholders
Mo to matou Ropu - About the Team
The Tiakina Kauri Management Agency operates within the Pest Management Directorate of Biosecurity New Zealand and focusses on protecting kauri in partnership with Maori, the Department of Conservation, and regional councils in Northland, Auckland, Coromandel, Waikato, and the Bay of Plenty. The team comprises of nine full-time permanent staff, with half based in Wellington and the other half spread across Kerikeri, Whangarei and the Coromandel.
The diverse team brings together a broad range of skills and experiences that enhance the Agency's collective strength. This diversity fosters a multidisciplinary approach to biosecurity, ensuring innovative solutions for kauri protection. Committed to excellence, the team combines technical proficiency with a deep passion for environmental conservation and maintains a strong focus on collaboration and continuous learning. There is a team culture of continuous learning, and everyone is lovely!
Mo te Manatu Ahu Matua - About MPI
We're passionate about growing prosperity in the sector while ensuring respect for Kaitiaki – guardianship of our natural resources.
Nga hua o te mahi i te Manatu Ahu Matua - Benefits of working at MPI
Additional MPI leave days
Annual Wellness payment
Bi-annual paid eye test and contribution to the costs of corrective lenses/frames
Wa Mahi Ngawari - Flexible Working
We support flexible working arrangements and are happy to discuss these options with you.
Kua rite koe mo tenei mahi whaitake? - Are you ready to make a difference?We are committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi which includes working closely with iwi, hapu, whanau and hapori.
We aspire to reflect the diverse communities we serve, so we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, and identities. As an organisation, we are committed to making Manatu Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries a great place to work for all.
In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values; your interest and motivations for this role; the abilities, strengths, personal attributes and diverse perspectives you will bring to the role and this organisation, which may have also been gained outside of the workforce.
To view the position description and/or apply online, please click "APPLY FOR THIS JOB" or visit the MPI Careers Site. To apply, you must hold the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it – click here to find out more about work visa eligibility and options.
Applications close at midnight 13 October 2024
If you have any questions about the role, please email ******
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