Summer Assistant Vacancy - Aquatic Pest Surveillance and Advocacy (Fixed term - 12 weeks)
- Applications are now open for our Toi Moana Summer Experience Programme, running from 17 November 2025 to 4 February 2026.
- Opportunity to gain valuable paid work experience in local government.
- A 12 week Programme with opportunities to contribute to our projects and help Toi Moana deliver our community outcomes.
Te Tūranga - The Role:
Our Biosecurity Team is working on freshwater pest surveillance and advocacy this summer. … and we need your help!
We need someone to help us:
- Conduct field surveys and inspections for freshwater pest species (e.g. aquatic weeks, pest fish, and bivalves such as Corbicula fluminea) through the use of Environmental DNA technology and visual surveillance techniques.
- Accurately record and report any outstanding field observations and assist with analysis of findings.
- Help to promote Rule 7 of the BOP Regional Pest Management Plan at boat ramps, lake reserves and at other events as well as promoting biosecurity best practice (always check, clean, dry)!
- Distribute educational material at events and promote public awareness for freshwater pests.
- Assist with other ad-hoc duties as required to support wider team.
You’ll be joining the Biosecurity team who are responsible for delivering pest management across the region including on land and in our freshwater and marine environments. You will support the delivery of our freshwater biosecurity programmes, including surveillance, data collection, public engagement and operational support. This role assists with the prevention, detection, and management of freshwater pest species in high-use recreational freshwater environments team.
Ngā Pūkenga, ngā wheako - Your Skills & Experience:
Ideal applicants for this role should:
- Be studying or plan to commence studying towards a Science based qualification, preferably in environmental studies or similar discipline.
- Have a keen interest in freshwater ecology, environmental science, or biosecurity.
- Be physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in a range of weather conditions
- Have good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Be a reliable and self-motivated individual who is able to work as part of a team.
- Hold a current full driver’s licence.
This position will be located in Rotorua.
Ko wai mātau? He aha te kaupapa nei? - About Us & Our Toi Moana Summer Experience Programme:
At Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC) we guide and support the sustainable development of the Bay of Plenty, now and into the future. A major focus of our work involves looking after the environment, but we also have a broader responsibility with others for the economic, social and cultural well-being of our regional community.
Our Toi Moana Summer Experience Programme has been running for more than 30 years because we believe one of the best ways to learn is on the job. Each year our Summer Assistants play an important role by supporting our teams and completing important pieces of work around the Bay of Plenty. There is no better place to contribute to your community and the environment you live in, while working alongside passionate and professional experts in their fields
He aha tā Toi Moana? - What’s on Offer?
- An incredible Summer Experience Programme with full induction and ongoing learning opportunities.
- Support and mentoring on the job.
- Diverse working environment and friendly team atmosphere.
Next Steps:
To apply for this role, click the 'Apply Now' button at the top right of your screen and complete the application form.
Please note that if this is the first time you are applying for any role at BOPRC, you will first need to create a profile and register on our recruitment website. Once registered, you can then log in to apply for the specific role/s you are interested in.
- Applications will be automatically acknowledged upon receipt.
- Applications will be screened and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for next steps - this may include a phone screen prior to interview.
- Interviews will be held over the phone or via MS teams/ Zoom from Tuesday 16 September 2025.
- All candidates will be notified once the position is filled.
- Successful candidates will attend an Induction day on the first day of the Programme so that you can meet your fellow 2025/26 Summer Assistants and find out more about working at BOPRC.
If you have any queries or require any further information on what the position involves, please phone Hamish Lass - Team Leader Biosecurity on 0800 884 880.
Applications close 12pm, Monday 15 September 2025 and will be accepted online only.
