At Earth Sciences New Zealand, we're bringing together exceptional science, technology and people to address the environmental, climate and natural hazard challenges facing Aotearoa New Zealand. As a collaborative and purpose-driven organisation, we're committed to delivering science that creates meaningful impact for communities, industry and the environment, while partnering with Māori, supporting Pacific resilience, and shaping a more sustainable future for generations to come.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for an Ecological Modeller to join our Freshwater Modelling team and help deliver our Land and Water Mission. This is an exciting opportunity for an early- to mid-career scientist to apply their ecological modelling and data science expertise to challenges that matter.

Working across freshwater ecology, hydrology, water resource management, and environmental policy, you'll contribute to research that improves our understanding of how freshwater ecosystems respond to environmental pressures such as changes in flow, water quality, habitat, and climate. You'll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across Earth Sciences NZ and help deliver science that supports freshwater management, policy, and decision-making.

We're looking for an enthusiastic and collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills and a passion for using science to create real-world environmental impact.

What You’ll Do

Within our Freshwater Modelling team, you will

Develop and apply ecological models using statistical, process-based, machine learning, and hybrid modelling approaches. Analyse and interpret large environmental datasets to deliver robust, evidence-based science outcomes. Contribute to projects across a range of freshwater ecosystems, including algae, invertebrates, and fish, from species-level to ecosystem-scale applications. Work with colleagues across Earth Sciences NZ, including specialists in hydrodynamics, catchment modelling, natural hazards, and remote sensing. Deliver research and consulting projects from proposal development through to project delivery and reporting. Communicate scientific findings through client reports, publications, presentations, and decision-support tools. Build strong relationships with clients, research partners, government agencies, water and land management stakeholders, and Māori partners. Contribute to project leadership, mentoring, and the ongoing development of our science strategy and capabilities.

What You’ll Bring

A PhD in environmental science (e.g., ecology, fisheries, environmental management) or applied statistics/mathematics. Strong quantitative skills in statistical analysis, modelling, simulation, and uncertainty analysis. Proficiency in programming and data analysis, particularly in R (or similar languages such as Python), together with experience working with large, complex environmental datasets. A proven track record of securing external funding. Well-developed written communication skills, including experience preparing scientific publications and consultancy reports. Strong verbal communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage a range of audiences. Experience applying science in policy, management, or consulting contexts. A collaborative approach and the ability to work effectively across disciplines and with a diverse range of stakeholders.

We know that talented people—especially those from under represented or neurodiverse communities—sometimes hesitate to apply unless they meet every single requirement in a job description. If this role aligns with your strengths, lived experience, or interests, we’d love to hear from you and we’re committed to supporting your growth.

What We Offer

Varied, challenging and important work with talented colleagues in an organisation devoted to earth science. A high performing organisation with a focus on employee development and wellbeing Generous leave entitlements and employee benefits Flexible working options (e.g, part-time, flexible start and finish times). We are happy to discuss potential flexible options for this position at the interview stage. A permanent, full time (37.5 hours per week) position based at our campus in Christchurch or Hamilton.

View the full Position Description for this position at: https://careers.sciencenewzealand.org/niwa/about-us. If you have any questions about the role or application process, please contact people@earthsciences.nz.

Apply now

If this sounds like the next step in your career, we’d love to hear from you.

Applications close on Sunday, 26 July 2026