Policy Analyst or Planner
The role
Are you a critical thinker who enjoys solving complex problems? We’re looking for a motivated individual to join our Policy and Strategy team in the Strategy, Regulation and Science Group as a Policy Planner or Analyst.
This is a permanent, full-time position located in Palmerston North.
We are looking for someone with an interest in natural environmental management to play a part in the review and replacement of our existing resource management plan into the proposed new resource management system. Work content will be varied across all domains, including air, coast and freshwater. We will look to you for analysis and advice on how to implement the reforms in ways which work on the ground and responds to the issues and opportunities in the Horizons Region.
Why join us?
When you join us, you can look forward to a rewarding career full of opportunities to develop a positive and supportive work environment. We do this through:
- Positive focus on employee health, wellness and wellbeing initiatives across the organisation including your birthday off, wellness day, life insurance for all permanent staff and 5 weeks leave after 2 years of service
- Flexible family friendly work environment
- Ongoing development and opportunities across the organisation to grow, specialise or diversify your skills.
- Working together for a better environment across our region
- A supportive and social work environment across the organisation
About you
You’ll have a drive to make a difference for our community and the environment, and be keen to work through complex issues that have no easy answer. This role will require you to demonstrate strong critical thinking skills, and a willingness to work as part of the team to turn government policy into workable regulation and programmes. You’ll have an ability to write for different audiences - and be able to quickly absorb, adapt and translate information for those who need it. You will need strong interpersonal skills, as well as excellent time management, to deliver results.
Ideally you will have at least 1 year of policy or planning related experience. An understanding of public policy, environmental economics, environmental science or natural resource management would put you at a definite advantage.
About us
The Horizons region extends over 22,200km2 – from Ruapehu in the north and Horowhenua in the south, to Whanganui in the west and Tararua in the east. We work with and for our community in the use and protection of our environment, managing our precious resources of land, air and water; as well as public transport and a key role in emergency management. At Horizons Regional Council we work to make our region a healthy environment where people are thriving, including our staff.
Horizons are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to ensuring we have a diverse and inclusive workplace so our people reflect the diversity of our region.
Applications close 5pm Sunday 19 July 2026
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
