River Management Officer or Cadet
The role
We are expanding our River Management team and are seeking motivated people who are passionate about delivering positive outcomes for our communities and environment to join us in a range of permanent, full-time River Management Officer and River Management Cadet positions.
These roles are based from our Kairanga Service Centre and will work across part of the beautiful Horizons region. However, for the right candidate, we are open to discussing alternative work locations within our region such as Whanganui, Marton or Woodville.
These roles provide an opportunity to be involved in a wide range of projects that support the sustainable management of our rivers and waterways, balancing flood risk reduction with the protection and enhancement of natural ecosystems. Your work will help keep communities safe while supporting the river health, biodiversity, and environmental values that our communities’ treasure.
As a River Management Officer or Cadet you will be working closely with the wider River Management team on planning, designing, constructing and maintaining river control and drainage works in a sustainable manner. You will be required to develop good working relationships with landowners, iwi, other agencies, and our ratepayers – particularly those in the rural area.
About you
We are seeking driven and committed individuals with diverse skills and experience to contribute to the delivery of river management, flood protection, and related operational projects that support organisational priorities. Whether you are looking to develop as a future River Management Officer or have transferable skills and experience in areas such as project management, environmental and/or regulatory management, and could step straight into a River Management Officer role, we encourage you to apply. We value diverse backgrounds and recognise that skills developed in related fields can strengthen our capability and support the successful delivery of our work programmes. There is on the job support to develop in the roles.
The River Management Officer role requires a relevant tertiary qualification to degree level such as Engineering (Civil), Science (in Earth Sciences, Geography, Freshwater Ecology or Geoscience) or a New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Civil Engineering). This role requires someone capable of co-planning river protection and drainage works, liaising with landowners, completing technical reporting and budget management, while maintaining and improving the environment around us. We are also looking for people with a proven ability to find practical solutions to problems, a working knowledge of health and safety, experience in contract supervision, and good communication skills.
For the River Management Cadet role, a New Zealand Certificate in Engineering (Civil), or other relevant degree in Engineering/Science or Science, or at least well-advanced progress towards such a qualification is desirable. However, we are equally looking for ambition, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn, as this cadet role provides the opportunity to grow, develop, and build a rewarding career in river management. You will bring a working knowledge of health and safety, along with strong time management and communication skills. You will be a collaborative team player, able to engage effectively with a wide range of people and have a genuine passion for our rivers and an interest in civil engineering.
Both roles work over a large area, so holding a current full Class 1 driver’s licence is essential. Comfort and capability working in outdoor environments is required.
Be sure to check out the Careers page on our website for other current vacancies, including a senior role within the team, which may be better suited if you have more experience and are seeking a more senior-level opportunity.
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 Us
Our purpose is to 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.
Applications close at 5pm on Sunday 19 July 2026.
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 for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
