Ecologist

About the role

Whirika is seeking an enthusiastic Ecologist to support the Biodiversity and Restoration work we deliver based in Ōtepoti Dunedin. We want someone with broad ecological knowledge and interests, ideally with a degree of subject matter expertise within this, who is keen to deliver ecological monitoring and survey work and associated data management and reporting, desktop studies and background research, GIS-based ecological mapping, and generally contribute to our great team.

Although most of the work will be in Otago, a willingness to work elsewhere in Aotearoa, generally for up to a week at a time as projects require, is desirable. This role is an ideal opportunity for someone to share their energy and knowledge while being supported to grow their ecological skills and gain experience in consultancy.

As well as delivering effective and valued solutions for our commercial clients, Whirika strives to support iwi- and community-led ecological, environmental, and sustainability initiatives, and experience of working in this context is highly desirable.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver ecological monitoring and survey work
• Undertake associated data management and reporting
• Conduct desktop studies and background research
• Perform GIS-based ecological mapping
• Contribute to team delivery of biodiversity and restoration projects

About you

• Have a broad knowledge of and interest in Aotearoa's ecology, and ideally more in-depth knowledge of a field within this
• Have a degree and likely a post-graduate qualification in a relevant field
• Want to use their knowledge, skills and energy to deliver great results for our broad range of clients
• Have strong project management and organisational skills and be able to reliably deliver tasks with appropriate support
• Operate well within a team, especially in learning from and undertaking tasks to support the work of colleagues
• Be available to contribute to the delivery of projects based in coastal Otago and elsewhere in Aotearoa
• Be interested in a career in ecological consultancy

About us

Whirika is derived from the word 'whiri' - the plaited foundation of a kete used to combine different strands together. It represents the role we play in projects and the type of work we strive to deliver - collaborative, strong and interwoven.

Whirika is a Certified B Corporation delivering integrated environmental solutions across Aotearoa. We collaborate with organisations, governments, iwi, and communities to co-create innovative, culturally grounded, and sustainable outcomes.

We provide tailored support across the full sustainability spectrum - including energy management, emissions reduction, biodiversity and ecosystem restoration, waste minimisation, GIS and modelling, community planning, catchment management, and sustainable business practices - working across disciplines to deliver cohesive, holistic solutions.

Our team of 20 is predominantly based in Ōtepoti Dunedin, with others located in Tauranga and Whakatū Nelson.

How to apply

If you would like to discuss this position further before applying, please contact Craig Wilson [email protected]

To submit your application for this position, please email a cover letter and CV to Sharon Teavae [email protected]

Applications close at 12pm on 16 October 2026.

Start date: 23 November 2026 or by negotiation.