Marine Mammal Observer

HEB Construction is a dynamic and innovative leader in New Zealand Infrastructure and dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainable practices. iReX is a joint venture project between HEB Construction and Downer to deliver one of the country's most significant infrastructure projects - There are only a handful of engineering projects of this nature and scale in New Zealand.

Based in **Wellington** or Picton, this career-defining project will be delivering safe, seamless, and spectacular ferry rides connecting both the North and South Island together. You will be benefiting our environment, our communities, and our country - something we can all enjoy and be proud of, long into the future.

**Role Description**:
As a Marine Mammal Observer (MMO), you will play a crucial role in monitoring and safeguarding marine mammals in the vicinity of our piling operations. You will work closely with construction teams and environmental specialists to ensure compliance and best practice for marine mammal protection. Formal training by a marine mammal specialist will be provided for this role.

**Responsibilities**:

- Conduct systematic marine mammal surveys and monitoring during construction activities, adhering to established protocols and methodologies.
- Identify and record species, behaviour, and distribution of marine mammals through accurate data collection and reporting.
- Implement mitigation measures to minimise potential impacts on marine mammals, ensuring adherence to project-specific guidelines and regulatory requirements.
- Provide guidance and support to project personnel on marine mammal protection protocols.
- Contribute to the implementation of resource consent conditions, environmental management plans, reporting on marine mammal observations and incidents whilst working closely with the iReX environmental team.
- Stay up to date with media sightings within the area, relevant scientific research and regulatory developments related to marine mammal protection.
- Enforce mitigation measures including documenting any action taken.
- Liaising with stakeholders and partners; Mana Whenua, Ports, Department of Conservation.

**Requirements**:

- An interest in ecology and protecting the environment.
- Capable of working in a challenging environment both within a team and individually.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to effectively collaborate with construction teams and diverse stakeholders.
- Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting using appropriate software and tools.
- Knowledge of marine mammal species found in New Zealand waters, their behaviours, and their habitat requirements would be highly regarded but is not essential.
- Experience as a Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) in construction or similar role would be highly regarded but is not essential.
- Qualification in marine biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field would be highly regarded but is not essential.
- An understanding of relevant legislation, guidelines, and best practices related to marine mammal protection would be highly regarded but is not essential.
- Familiarity with marine mammal survey methodologies, such as visual observations and passive acoustic monitoring is desirable.
- Valid New Zealand driver license.

**How to Apply**: If you are passionate about marine mammal conservation and eager to contribute to the ground-breaking iReX Project, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your resumé, a cover letter, and any relevant supporting documents. In your cover letter, please highlight your previous experience and your commitment to environmental stewardship.