Team Leader – Water Resources
Location: Invercargill, Southland | Work Type: Full-time, Permanent

Lead the science shaping Southland’s water future.

Play a pivotal role in protecting and enhancing Southland’s freshwater environment. As Team Leader – Water Resources, you’ll guide a team of hydrologists and environmental scientists who monitor, research, and manage the region’s rivers, lakes, and groundwater systems.

You’ll combine technical expertise with people leadership—overseeing major programmes from flood forecasting to long-term resource planning, and ensuring robust science underpins council decision-making. This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced water professional ready to step into a broader leadership role where impact is tangible and community-focused.

What you’ll do
• Lead, coach, and mentor a skilled team of hydrologists, scientists, and monitoring technicians.
• Oversee hydrology, environmental monitoring, and flood warning programmes.
• Translate complex data into insights that support policy, planning, and operational decisions.
• Collaborate with iwi partners, research organisations, and community stakeholders.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement in water science and management.

What you’ll bring
• Postgraduate qualification (MSc or PhD) in hydrology, water resources, or environmental science.
• Approximately 10 years’ relevant experience, with proven leadership capability.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, team-centred approach.
• Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and commitment to working in partnership with Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku.

Why apply
• Purpose-driven work supporting healthy waterways and resilient communities.
• Broad exposure across projects and disciplines—thanks to a smaller, agile council of around 200 staff.
• Genuine leadership development opportunities and the chance to shape regional water management.
• A supportive, high-performing team that values innovation, science excellence, and community impact.
• A region with a real sense of community, incredibly affordable housing, and exceptional natural beauty.
• People are supported with a flexible work environment.
• Benefits include:
      - 37.5-hour working week with flexible hours to support work–life balance.
      - Generous annual leave entitlements, up to 5 weeks.
      - Training and professional development opportunities to grow your career.
      - 3 days wellbeing leave and enhanced sick leave
      - Income protection insurance
      - Access to a vibrant and active social club
      - Relocation support 

Next Steps
If you’re a science leader ready to step into a strategic and meaningful role, one that blends people, purpose, and technical expertise, then we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now to help shape Southland’s water future.

Contact Ben Lapworth for confidential enquiries to explore if this is the position for you ben@84recruitment.co.nz | 022 183 4944

*84 Recruitment is the sole exclusive recruitment partner assisting with this role.