Science Planning Lead

• Full Time
• Application Closes 10 May 2026
• Canterbury - Christchurch City
• Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerk

Te whai wāhitanga | The Opportunity

This role plays a pivotal part in coordinating and enabling the effective planning and delivery of New Zealand’s Antarctic science programme. Working closely with the scientific community and internal Operations teams, you will help ensure science activities are well planned, integrated and deliver high‑quality outcomes that support New Zealand’s obligations under the Antarctic Treaty System, inform policy, and connect science with end users.

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced science professional who thrives on collaboration, systems thinking, and long‑term planning, and who is motivated by contributing to world‑leading Antarctic research in a purpose‑driven organisation.

Mō te mahi | About the role – What you’ll be doing

In this role, you will:

· Lead and coordinate Antarctic science field planning, including the review and integration of Logistics Support Requests

· Work closely with the research community to optimise field plans and ensure they are achievable and supportable

· Clearly communicate science planning requirements to the Antarctica New Zealand Operations Team

· Lead the development and coordination of a 3–5 year long‑term science plan aligned with organisational and operational priorities

· Integrate Antarctic Science Platform fieldwork into wider national research and operational frameworks

· Support science event planning, near‑season planning, and science reporting processes

· Build and maintain strong relationships with researchers, stakeholders and partner organisations

· Contribute to science strategy development and the continuous improvement of planning and coordination processes

This role works across Science and Operations and is central to ensuring science ambitions are translated into safe, efficient and effective delivery in Antarctica.

Mōu | About you – What you’ll bring

You will bring strong science literacy, planning capability, and the ability to work effectively across diverse stakeholder groups. Ideally, you will have:

· A university degree in a science discipline (postgraduate qualification or equivalent experience desirable)

· Experience in Antarctic or remote field research environments

· Demonstrated experience in science planning, coordination or project management

· Strong communication, relationship management and influencing skills

· An understanding of the New Zealand research, public sector and funding environment

· Excellent organisational skills and the ability to work independently

· A commitment to health, safety and wellbeing, and to tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles

Most importantly, you’ll be motivated by supporting high‑quality science in one of the world’s most unique environments.

He aha ai mātou | Why join us?

You’ll be part of an organisation working at the forefront of Antarctic science and environmental stewardship. Our vision is to ensure Antarctica and the Southern Ocean are valued, protected and understood — now and for generations to come.

We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive and safe workplace.

Tono mai ināianei | Apply now

If you’re ready to play a key role in shaping the future of New Zealand’s Antarctic science programme, we’d love to hear from you. 

Please include a cover letter in your own words detailing why you'd like to work with us and why you are a good fit for this role.

For further details and to view the full role description, please click Apply.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so early applications are encouraged.

All applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand and will be required to undergo pre‑employment checks, including medical clearance.

 Travel to Antarctica may form part of this role.

Applications will close at 12pm, 10 May 2026