Junior Ecologist

Company Description Effects Management Ecology Limited (EME) provides a wide range of ecological services to support resource consent applications for developments. EME specializes in Ecological Impact Assessments and the creation of pragmatic, practical ecological management plans to manage effects to ecological features. EME works closely with clients to deliver evidence-based advice that balances ecological values with project needs. Applicants can reach out to Mark Hansen to find out more.

Role Description The Graduate Ecologist role is a hybrid position based in Christchurch, with some flexibility for working from home and travel for field work. Day-to-day responsibilities include assisting with desktop assessments, ecological field surveys, data collection, species identification in a variety of habitats, data analysis, GIS mapping and report inputs. The Graduate Ecologist will support Senior and Principal Ecologists as required, for efficient and cost effective delivery or Projects. The successful applicant must be physically fit, competent in the outdoors in a range of environments from urban to remote backcountry, have at least a basic understanding of indigenous flora and fauna, and be familiar with our legislative requirements and industry standard guidelines and survey mythologies.

Role Duration Full time, fixed-term contract for the 2026/27 field season.

Start: ASAP or early November (latest).

End: Early May 2027, with a potential to extend the role depending on data processing and reporting requirements from the field work.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor of Science Degree, preferably with an Ecology Major as a minimum.
• Have a passion for the outdoors.
• Strong field work skills, including ecological surveying and data collection.
• Foundational understanding of NZ flora, fauna and habitat types.
• Be physically fit and capable of remote backcountry field work.
• Ability to work safely in the field, sometimes in remote or challenging conditions for up to several days at a time, within a tight-knit team.
• Full drivers license and willingness to travel for field assignments nationwide is essential, 4WD experience is a preferred.
• First Aid training is preferred.
• At least 1 year of ecology experience required, 2+ years preferred.
• Some experience in Environmental Impact Assessments preferred but at least a comprehensive understanding of industry standard guidelines.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and time-management skills, with attention to detail.
• Proficient writing skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, with a professional, inclusive approach to colleagues and clients.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word and Excel essential.
• GIS experience is preferred.
• Willing, able and quick to learn new field and software skills.

Applicants must be based in North Canterbury/Christchurch with a Full NZ drivers licence.

Applicants must be willing to conduct in-person interviews, which may include a brief field trip as part of the interview process.