Senior Climate Change Adviser

• 12 month fixed term, full-time position
• $110,000 - $120,000 per annum + two Rā Oranga wellbeing days
• Flexible Working Arrangements

About Nelson City Council | E pā ana ki te Kaunihera o Whakatū

Our vision for Whakatū Nelson is a creative, prosperous and innovative city. Our community is inclusive, resilient, and connected – we care for each other and our environment.

Do you want to make a real difference in tackling climate change? Nelson City Council has an exciting opening for a fixed term Senior Climate Change Adviser to help lead our strategic response to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts in Nelson.

About this role | Kō tēnei tūranga mahi

The Senior Climate Change Adviser will play an important role in implementing the Whakatū Nelson Climate Change Strategy, developing adaptation pathways enhancing the resillience of our region against climate change impacts and addressing climate-related challenges facing our community. You will collaborate with various stakeholders, from our iwi partners and government agencies to community groups and businesses, ensuring a cohesive approach to sustainability and resilience. Key responsibilities include:

• Lead the implementation of strategic initiatives and actions related to Whakatū Nelson Climate Change Strategy.
• Work across Council teams to embed climate change considerations into programmes and decisions, offering expert guidance and support.
• Lead community engagement on climate change and build partnerships with key stakeholders and partners (including iwi and climate-focused groups).
• Provide support to Council’s Climate Change Taskforce.
• Support and mentor team members and foster a collaborative, positive workplace environment.

About you | Ko ngā pūmanawa ōu

The ideal candidate will have:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in climate change, environmental science or planning or equivalent experience
• Experience in climate change mitigation and adaptation, preferably including work with or within central or local government
• Proven community engagement skills
• Strong understanding of the climate change sector and related key players, agencies and bodies
• Analytical and research capabilities to inform evidence-based decisions relating to climate change trends and impacts
• Collaborative and strategic mindset
• In-depth professional knowledge of climate science, government policy, and relevant legislation

What we offer | Ko ngā painga mōu

By joining Te Kaunihera o Whakatū | Nelson City Council, you are stepping into a collaborative team focused on creating a positive influence in our community and environment. You will have the opportunity to shape the future for climate action in our community and make a significant difference in the Whakatū | Nelson region.

We offer:

• A competitive salary
• Wellbeing leave, platforms and initiatives
• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance
• Generous leave provisions
• Access to various employee benefits and discounts
• Opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects that shape our community's future

Click here to view the full Job Description

Applications Close: Midnight Sunday 29 June 2025

For further enquiries | Ina he pātai anō, whakapā mai : Please reach out to Rachel Pemberton, Manager Climate Change [email protected] or (03) 539 5572