Wanted: A Local Legend for After Hours!

Waimate District Council is still on the hunt for a Local Legend to join our team as an After Hours Officer.

This is a bit of a one‑of‑a‑kind role, so we're putting the feelers out again to find the right fit.

If you're passionate about animals and confident working independently, this could be a great fit. You'll need to stay calm under pressure, take a practical approach, and be committed to positive outcomes for both animals and the community. Living locally in Waimate is essential.

As the first on scene, you'll respond to alarm activations and support our council's wider security and safety services. This role brings together Animal Control, Noise Control, and Security, making you the key person when things get lively after hours.

The Details:

• Roster: One week on (Monday-Sunday), two weeks off
• Hours: Weekdays 4pm-8am (ability to start at 4.30pm if required), weekends 4pm Friday-8am Monday
• Minimum: 7 hours per week (1 hour per day for security checks during your on-call week)
• Pay: Retainer + call-out rates + hourly pay for time worked
• Ideally, you'll be flexible enough to assist with occasional daytime shifts, provide cover for staff leave, and take part in training and team meetings during regular business hours.

Your responsibilities include:

• Daily security checks
• On-call for call-outs (noise complaints, animal control, security issues)
• Responding to alarm activations
• Additional animal control support as required—this may include pound duties and general assistance to the Animal Control team
• Promoting responsible dog ownership and community safety
• Accurate record-keeping and timely reporting
• Maintaining health and safety for yourself and others

What we're looking for:

• Confident handling animals (dog handling is essential!)
• Great with people—excellent customer service skills
• Full, clean driver's licence
• Organised, reliable, and able to follow procedures
• Physically capable for the job
• Strong communication skills and ability to remain calm under pressure
• Bonus points if you've done Animal Control, Noise Control, or Security before
• Currently residing in the Waimate District
• Ability to manage conflict and investigate issues

Training will be provided for the right person. Just know, it's not all cuddles with dogs - sometimes, you'll need to remove animals from unsafe situations. Safety is our priority—we have a Get Home Safe system to ensure workers are safe when out working alone.

Sound like you? Applications close Sunday 12 July (but don't wait—we may interview early!).

Please note: You will need to have and maintain the legal right to work in New Zealand, and a have a full, current driver licence to apply for this role. This position is subject to a satisfactory Police check.