Supervisor, Field Operations

OSPRI is seeking a highly motivated individual to fill the full-time position of Supervisor, Field Operations. This is a full-time, permanent role based in either Dunedin, West Coast, or Christchurch.

Ko wai mātou - About OSPRI:
 
OSPRI is the livestock sector’s integrated disease management and traceability agency and a critical part of New Zealand’s agricultural sector. We play an important part in protecting New Zealand’s biosecurity system. OSPRI currently manages three major national programmes: TBfree (directed at the eradication of bovine tuberculosis), M.bovis (OSPRI manages the Mycoplasma bovis programme under a government industry agreement) and NAIT (National Animal Identification and Tracing System).   
 
Our People Strategy vision is to have the most talented people doing their best work, feeling great about being a part of OSPRI.  We offer a great employee experience which aims to attract the best talent, builds the capability of our people, rewards and recognises them for their successes and gives them a strong sense of belonging. 

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role:

As the Supervisor, Field Operations, you will work closely with third party contractors, farmers, Iwi and landowners to oversee, facilitate and deliver OSPRI’s programmes. As the key contact in the field, this position will provide technical and professional expertise to engage with stakeholders and contractors to represent the regional nuances and requirements to ensure effective programme delivery. More specifically, this position acts as the main point of contact for pest control contractors and other parties affected by the delivery of OSPRI’s programmes in the field for ground and aerial operations. This role also monitors and assesses the contractor deliverables and performance in line with their obligations while ensuring health and safety standards are adhered to.  

Kōrero mōu - About you:

The successful candidate will have strong verbal and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships across OSPRI.  Excellent planning and project management skills, as well as competence in the delivery of assigned tasks, are a must. Working effectively without direct supervision, adhering to strict timeframes, and managing competing work priorities will be highly valued. OSPRI is actively seeking an energetic and articulate individual who possesses a strong understanding of the primary industry, farm management, disease management, and traceability fields. As someone who epitomises industry knowledge, confidence, and charisma, you will effortlessly build strong relationships with farmers and establish a foundation of trust, helping to safeguard the industry.  

In addition, the successful candidate will have: 

• A tertiary qualification (NZQA Level 4 equivalent) in science or agriculture or equivalent relevant practical experience or relevant practical industry experience 
• A good understanding of risk management frameworks
• Knowledge of TB management and the Biosecurity Act 1993 and how it relates to the biosecurity industry, knowledge of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 and Health and Safety and Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations
• Competence in pest management approaches and designs, such as possum population control techniques.
• Maintain a current, full, clean driver (motor vehicle) licence and have an ability to travel domestically when required
• Knowledge and experience in successful vendor management and ensuring programmes are implemented in accordance with requirements and specifications
• Proficiency in GIS software packages such as ARC GIS Pro
• Proficient in core Microsoft Office suite - Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook to at least intermediate level of document preparation and data entry. 
   

In return, we offer:

• A supportive and energetic team
• Interesting and exciting work
• OSPRI days – paid days of leave between Christmas and New Year
• Medical Insurance
• Critical Illness, Trauma and Lifecare Insurance
• Flexible working options
• Study Assistance
• Ability to purchase additional annual leave
• Eye care allowance
• Volunteer Day
• Wellbeing Leave
• Partners Leave for the birth or adoption of a new baby
   

Me pēhea te tono - How to apply:  

To apply, please complete the steps below and attach your CV and cover letter. 

Applications close at 4pm 12 May 2025 

Please note: Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory, and this role requires a Ministry of Justice criminal history check and pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.

OSPRI supports a workplace of diversity, equity, and inclusion where our people feel welcomed, valued, and supported to do their best work. If you need specific support or accessibility adjustments to enable you to take part in this application process, please don't hesitate to contact us.