Are you passionate about sustainability and making a positive impact in your community?

WasteNet Southland are looking for a vibrant Community Engagement and Education Officer to help advocate, engage, and educate stakeholders on sustainable solid waste and recycling practices, aligned with our Waste Management Minimisation Plan.

What you'll do:

• Deliver engaging community outreach and education programs on waste reduction, recycling, and composting.
• Develop and present educational workshops, resources, and events tailored to various audiences.
• Build strong relationships with schools, community groups, and local businesses.
• Collaborate with Invercargill City Council, Southland District Council, and Gore District Council staff, and other stakeholders on regional initiatives.
• Assist with project coordination, reporting, and financial support activities.
• Contribute to wider Waste Management Minimisation Plan activities as required.

What you will bring:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in education, communications, marketing, or a related field.
• 2-3 years' experience in community engagement, education, or stakeholder communication.
• A current NZ driver's licence.
• A strong understanding of sustainability, waste minimisation, and community outreach.
• Proven ability to develop and deliver educational content.
• Ability to adapt your approach to suit a diverse audience, from schoolchildren to business leaders.

What we offer:

• Flexible working environment
• Career progression and training/development opportunities
• Positive focus of employee health and well-being: Workstation assessments, free flu vaccines, EAP services, 50% off eye exams, discounted gym memberships etc
• Kiwisaver and Superannuation Schemes
• Access to sick leave from day one of employment
• Appointment time leave: Up to 2 hours for important appointments eg. Doctor, bank, dentist

This is a permanent full-time position working 8.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday, both days inclusive. However, for the right candidate we are open to discussion a part-time working arrangement.

Waihōpai Invercargill is New Zealand's southernmost city and the heart and hub of Southland. We're known for our lush green spaces, like award-winning Queens Park, our long summer daylight hours and our local legend Burt Munro. Our city has character, charm and a laidback atmosphere. There's outstanding nature reserves, Ōreti Beach and the Waihōpai River to explore plus our lively restaurants complemented by a thriving entertainment and arts scene which are hard to beat! The sensible gridded layout featuring wide streets ensures a convenient 10-minute drive to work. Who wouldn't want to call this place home?

For more information, please see the full position description or contact the Invercargill City Council on (03) 211 1777.

Apply online at Careers | Invercargill City Council (icc.govt.nz). Please don't apply directly via SEEK as we won't receive your application.

Applications close 15 June 2025. Please note applications will be processed as they are received and we encourage you to apply early as this advert may be removed at any time.

Successful applicants must be legally entitled to live and work in New Zealand. While all applications will be reviewed, first priority will be given to those applicants who are currently residing in New Zealand.