Advisor - Hazardous Substances

Full job description
As New Zealand's environmental regulator, the work we do today helps shape the future of our tomorrow.


Our purpose | To tatou kaupapa

We are the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), New Zealand's independent environmental regulator. Our role is important; to help protect our country's unique way of life by looking out for the health of its environment, its economy and its people.

Our kaupapa is about making the right decisions, based on evidence, matauranga, and science. We are passionate people working as one EPA to encourage big ideas and bold goals.

What we achieve today helps shape the future of New Zealand for generations to come.

Jump in the waka - make history with us.

About our group | Mo te roopu

The purpose of the Hazardous Substances New Organisms Group is to manage consent application and reassessment processes.

About the role | Mo te tunga

We are looking for two new Hazardous Substances Applications Advisors to join the team!

If you have experience and skills in hazardous substances regulation, environmental management or regulatory science, this is the role for you.

As an Advisor, you will be required to manage a busy workload of applications, work across a range of legislation and work streams, and contribute to the success of the EPA. You will be required to build strong, positive connections with customers, and your ability to communicate effectively is essential.

About you | Mohou ake

We are looking for someone with a range of skills and experience - if you have some or all of the below, we would love to hear from you.

experience in regulatory systems, with a relevant tertiary qualification preferable

experience working with the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996, the Ozone Layer Protection Act, the Import and Export Restrictions Act 1988, or similar

excellent communication, relationship building and reporting skills, with a desire to deliver great customer service as part of our role as a proactive regulator

self-motivated, driven to deliver under pressure, able to manage multiple tasks and set priorities, and achieve results within tight deadlines

have strong attention to detail, while applying sound judgement, common sense and a pragmatic approach to problem-solving

a proven ability to analyse technical material, comprehend information, identify and manages risks, and communicate it simply

Have the ability to work, and deliver, under pressure, set priorities, and achieve results in tight deadlines

What's in it for you | Nga ahuatanga kei a matou

There are extra benefits to working at the EPA:

flexible working culture

three additional annual leave days between Christmas and New Years

$400 gross payment to help you set up working at home

an annual paid EPA Environment Day to support the community with environmental initiatives

in-house Maori cultural capability building programme

learning opportunities, including the annual Science Symposium

active and lively social club, and diverse groups and support networks

EPA awards recognising individual and team effort

Salary Range |

$71,618 - $107,426 per annum (midpoint $89,522).

This is the full salary range. Appointments will likely be made at or below the midpoint of this range, depending on skills and experience. An appointment at the midpoint assumes 100% competency in the role, with the full band covering a range of 80% - 120%.

How to apply | Me pehea te tuku tono

Complete the online application form and submit your CV and a covering letter.

Please note: your covering letter is an important part of our assessment process. Please highlight how your experience relates to this role, and why you applied. Tell us about you, your values and/or whakapapa.

View the Position Description

For more information, please contact recruit@epa.govt.nz or check out the careers section of our website www.epa.govt.nz/careers.

Applications will only be considered from those who have the entitlement to legally work in New Zealand and who are already located in New Zealand.

Applications close | Ra Katinga

5pm, 19 August 2025

We will be reviewing and processing applications as they are received.