Operations Controller - Project Management

Vector Free Marlborough (VFM), based in Blenheim, is a leading provider of vertebrate pest management services in the South Island and is part of the Rentokil Initial family. The company delivers a range of aerial and ground control operations for clients such as TBfree NZ (an OSPRI programme) and the Department of Conservation (DOC) in support of initiatives like the eradication of tuberculosis from livestock, and recovery of threatened species such as kiwi.

We are a friendly and supportive team driven by a passion to help protect people, enhance lives and preserve our planet, every day.  With strong year-on-year growth we are currently seeking someone to join our aerial division to support the Aerial Operations Manager with delivery of aerial pest control contracts.

The principal focus of this role is the provision of the following technical services:

• Preparation of operational, risk management and hazard plans
• Preparation of applications for statutory permissions
• Maintenance of records and databases
• Development of systems for aerial management
• Management of spatial data and creation of maps using GIS software
• Reporting to meet client and statutory requirements
• Contributing to preparation of tenders
• Project management

From time to time, you will also be required to undertake a range of other administrative and field duties including preparing and loading equipment for operational delivery, landowner consultation and supporting the work of other business divisions.

Remote workers, depending on location, will be considered for the role, however travel is required mainly around the upper South Island, including West Coast and Canterbury as part of the role.

About you

Organisational fit and ability to learn and deliver results is what is important in this role. The ideal applicant will be able to demonstrate experience delivering and managing projects through to completion and knows the value of working in a close-knit team. Candidates with animal pest management experience, or experience in environmental management, biodiversity conservation and agriculture are preferred. However, we specifically invite applications from people with transferrable skills or experience from other sectors. This could include people with strong operational, logistics,or operational planning backgrounds such as emergency management, defence force or other operational services, sectors or industries.

Practical field skills are a must – you will be comfortable, if not passionate, about the outdoors. Most of our field work is in remote environments and some helicopter transport is required to meet operational needs. Experience working around helicopters would be useful.

While a tertiary qualification is not essential for this role, a project management qualification or experience is desirable, as is a qualification oriented toward natural resource management.

Essential skills:

• Information management, including the ability to understand and navigate statutory processes. Further on-the-job training can be provided specific to this role.
• Excellent communicator – able to establish functional and respectful relationships with a range of people and groups such as colleagues, statutory agencies, subcontractors, clients, and landowners
• A motivated and driven team player
• High standard of literacy – particularly written English
• Proficient IT skills, and ability to learn and use other tech devices
• Basic topographical map reading
• Full Class 1 NZ drivers’ licence with towing experience essential; Class 2 would be viewed favourably.
• Willingness to travel around the upper South Island to plan and deliver aerial operations.

Desirable skills / attributes:

• Strong GIS skills (or the ability to learn quickly while under training)
• Field-related skills (such as GPS navigation)
• Current vertebrate pest management knowledge
• Current knowledge of biodiversity threat and/or TB vector management
• Controlled Substance Licence for Vertebrate toxic Agents (or the ability to obtain one)

What we offer

Working as part of a strong and supportive team you’ll be involved with delivering a range of interesting animal pest projects and will be mentored by some of the most well-regarded people in the industry. The role offers a competitive salary, fully subsidised health insurance for you and your family, a company vehicle and all the equipment required.