Compliance Lead

Discover a career with purpose at Waitaki District Council

Waitaki District Council is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for our 25,000 residents and creating a thriving, sustainable community. With a committed team of professionals, we provide essential services 24/7, ensuring the wellbeing of our district. We manage infrastructure, environmental conservation, community development, and regulatory services, responding to thousands of community interactions each year while proactively addressing local needs and challenges.

We're committed to specific goals and targets that emphasise our collaborative approach with iwi, local communities, other government sectors, and business partners. Together, living our organisational attitudes and behaviours, we will build a thriving one-team culture, enabling delivery of excellence in service for Waitaki.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

As the Compliance Lead – Water and Environmental Health, you'll play a pivotal leadership role in ensuring the health and sustainability of Waitaki's environment and water services. You will lead a dedicated team focused on environmental health, water quality, and regulatory compliance, delivering proactive, professional services with integrity and a strong customer focus. You'll be responsible for overseeing monitoring and enforcement activities related to drinking water standards, waste and storm water, environmental health, and public wellbeing. This includes managing investigations, responding to environmental health issues, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and standards. Working closely with internal customers, government agencies, and the community, you'll champion fair, transparent, and effective compliance practices. Your leadership will help shape policy, improve systems, and ensure accurate, timely reporting—contributing to a healthier, more sustainable Waitaki.

He aha taau e kawe mai | What you'll bring

The preferred candidate will have:

• Qualifications: A relevant tertiary qualification in compliance or enforcement (or equivalent experience), and a full NZ driver's licence.
• Regulatory Expertise: Strong understanding of regulatory compliance frameworks, legislation (including the Local Government Act 2002), and local government operations.
• Investigation Skills: Experience in evidence gathering, incident response, and working with legal processes.
• Interpersonal Skills: Proven ability in mediation, conflict resolution, and engaging constructively with the public and stakeholders.
• Systems and Standards: Familiarity with compliance reporting, quality management systems, and continuous improvement practices.

We're always open to secondments from other Local Government employers and across the wider public service. So, if you are interested in this role on a fixed term secondment basis and have your home agency's prior support, you're welcome to contact us to discuss making this happen.

Mo tātou | About us

Waitaki District Council (WDC) is a dynamic and progressive local government organisation dedicated to serving the residents and communities of the Waitaki District. Our mission is to foster a thriving, innovative and sustainable community through effective governance, quality service delivery and a commitment to continuous improvement.

As a proud 2025 HRD Employer of Choice Excellence Awardee, we are recognised nationally for creating a workplace where our people feel supported, valued and empowered to make a difference. We are building a culture of collaboration, wellbeing and growth, where our people can do their best work for our district and for each other.

At WDC, we provide a wide range of essential services that contribute to the wellbeing and development of our communities, including:

• Infrastructure and Environment: Managing and maintaining roads, water supply, waste management and recreational facilities to meet the needs of our growing district.
• Community and Economic Development: Supporting local businesses, tourism and community initiatives to promote economic growth and enhance quality of life.
• Regulatory Services: Ensuring compliance with building, environmental and public health standards to create a safe and healthy environment for all.
• Customer and Community Engagement: Actively engaging with our community to understand their needs and deliver exceptional customer service across all channels.
• We are committed to innovation, collaboration and service excellence, striving to be a leading council that makes Waitaki a great place to live, work and visit.

WDC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Research shows that women and people from minority groups may hesitate to apply if they do not meet every single requirement. If you are excited about this role and believe you can contribute to our work, we encourage you to apply.

Me pēhea te tono | How to Apply

If this position sounds like you, click apply now and submit a tailored Cover Letter and CV. Before confirmation of hire, pre-employment checks will be undertaken which may include references, credit check, drug and alcohol testing and police vetting prior to any written offer being made.

All applications must be submitted online and will not be accepted directly via email.

All applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand.

Utu ā-tau | Salary

The salary for this position will commence between $101,649 and $119,587 dependent on skills and experience relevant to the role.

Applications close Sunday 26 October 2025

For any queries related to this position, please contact Rachael on