About Us
At Downer we plan, create and sustain. Downer is the leading provider of integrated services in Australia and New Zealand. Through trusted relationships and world leading insight we work closely with our customers to design, build and sustain assets, infrastructure, and facilities.

About the Team
Downer’s Transport & Infrastructure business manages and maintains road networks across Australia and New Zealand, with civil and commercial construction in New Zealand. We are an integrated trans-Tasman team with a leading portfolio of products and services. By sharing our capabilities and insights across our regions we achieve the best technical solutions for our customers’ challenges, and for our communities.

Job Description
Ko te take ka parekareka e koe ki te mahi ki kōnei | Why you will enjoy working here

Downer is committed to delivering excellence by ensuring our people have the environment and the means to be successful. We offer:

• Free access to Marram health care benefits and discounted holiday homes
• Safety equipment and clothing provided as part of the role
• Internal promotion encouraged, training and development on offer
• Discounts for Samsung, PB Tech, Gym memberships and more!

Downer is a large and diverse company, with locations in every pocket of New Zealand. Our Biosecurity Division undertakes animal and plant pest control across the South Island and are now seeking Field Operators to join their Southern South Island team working in remote areas of the Mackenzie Country, Central Otago and Northern Southland.



Te kōwhiringa | The Opportunity

Downer’s Biosecurity team is an industry leader in the implementation and operation of wildlife management programmes. Our vision is to maintain a sustainable pest control industry through employing the right people, providing them the right resources and supporting them with ongoing training and development.

We have a great opportunity to combine your love of the outdoors and being paid, by joining our Southern South Island team as a Biosecurity Field Operator on a fixed term basis.



A bit about the role

Join our Southern South Island team as a Field Operator, where you'll play a key role in managing animal and plant pest control operations across the South Island. While our base is in Cromwell, your work will take you to various locations, with accommodation provided unless you're operating directly from the depot.

We're looking for a self-motivated and energetic individual who can thrive both independently and as part of a small team. Your responsibilities will include trapping, baiting, surveying, and monitoring pest animals like possums, rabbits, and ferrets, as well as managing pest plants such as gorse, broom, and wilding pines.

Safety and risk management are top priorities, so you'll need to maintain a strong focus on these while working in the field for extended periods. Proficiency in using GPS and handheld recording devices is essential, along with the ability to keep accurate records.

While previous experience in pest operations is preferred, we are open to training the right candidate, especially if your qualifications have lapsed or if you have some knowledge gaps.

This fixed-term position is expected to last until May 2025, with the possibility of extension based on project needs.

Please note that interviews will only proceed in the New Year, but please put your application forward if you are interested!

Nga pūkenga matua | Important Skills

As work is often undertaken on working farmland it is essential to understand animal behaviours through leisure activities or from working in a rural environment.

You’ll bring along with you:

• Class 1 driver’s licence
• Experience operating a 4 Wheel Drive and/or Light Utility Vehicle (preferred)
• First aid certificate (beneficial)
• A strong focus on health and safety i.e. keeping you and your work mates safe
• The ability to work away from home for extended periods of time (accommodation and other benefits will be provided)

Other desirable qualifications

• Growsafe Certificate
• Controlled Substance Licence or Approved Handler Certificate
• Chainsaw Unit Standards

Me pēhea ki te tono | How to apply

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, click Apply Now to submit your application!

We are committed to a safe working environment for everyone - all successful applicants will be required to undertake a pre-employment drug test, medical and a Ministry of Justice check prior to starting employment. If you need support with this requirement, please talk to our team.

Downer Group is an employer that acknowledges and embraces the importance of our people's diverse experiences, talents, and cultures. As an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from everyone.