• Step into a meaningful advisory role
• Get access to amazing staff benefits
• Permanent role, 32 hours per week

Ko wai mātau | About us

The people at Whakatāne District Council love what we do because we do it for others, and that feels good. We work hard and we know it's important to stop and play too. We're on a learning journey because we know we can always do better, and we know we're better together. Will you come on that journey with us?

In return, you'll enjoy a range of staff benefits including flexible working, an extra week's annual leave and free or discounted access to our community facilities. You'll never be more than half an hour away from rivers, lakes, forests, beaches and great walks - most are just on your doorstep. We love this place, and you will too.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

As our Environmental Health Advisor, you'll provide specialist technical and advisory support across environmental health and food safety functions, with a strong focus on quality systems, legislative compliance and proactive engagement with the local food industry.

This is more than a regulatory role — you'll sit at the centre of our food safety and quality management activity, working closely with Environmental Health Officers, the QMS lead and other Council teams. You'll help ensure systems remain current, audits are closed out effectively, and Council continues to meet its obligations under the Food Act 2014 and related legislation.

You'll also work directly with food businesses across the district, supporting safe, compliant practices through verification, education, coaching and early intervention. If you enjoy variety, autonomy and having real influence, this role offers all of that and more.

What you'll do

• Provide specialist technical advice on environmental health and food safety legislation.
• Maintain and continuously improve Quality Management Systems (QMS).
• Support internal and external audits, accreditation and verification requirements.
• Verify food businesses operating under Food Control Plans in line with MPI standards.
• Engage with food businesses to promote understanding and compliance through education and guidance.
• Coordinate and deliver food safety training, workshops and information sessions.

Ko wai koe | About you

You're confident, knowledgeable and practical in your approach, with a genuine interest in supporting positive outcomes for businesses and the wider community. You're comfortable providing advice, influencing good practice and working independently, while also valuing collaboration and strong relationships.

What You'll Bring to the Role

• A tertiary qualification in Environmental Health, Health Science, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• Experience in environmental health and food safety, ideally within local government.
• Strong knowledge of the Food Act 2014, Food Regulations 2015 and MPI requirements.
• Experience working with Quality Management Systems and audit processes.
• Excellent communication skills and a strong ability to engage with people.

Me pēhea te tono mai | How to apply

If you're ready to step into a meaningful advisory role that supports community wellbeing and safe food practices, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and what you'll bring to the Environmental Health Advisor role.

For any further information, please phone 07 306 0500 to speak with Nancy Elliott, Manager Community Regulation.