Our Quarantine Officers are highly trained professionals performing an extraordinary service for New Zealand's biosecurity protection. This permanent, full-time position in Tauranga offers the opportunity to work at the frontline of New Zealand's biosecurity system, ensuring that cargo and passengers entering the country are free from biosecurity risks.

Working primarily Monday to Friday with some rostered weekend and after-hours work, you'll be based at Mount Maunganui with work areas extending from Waihi through to Whakatane and Rotorua. Actual working hours are roster-specific and may include hours outside 6am to 6pm, Monday to Sunday.

Key Responsibilities

Inspect vessels and assess biosecurity practices to ensure compliance with New Zealand regulations
Examine commercial goods and cargo for potential biosecurity threats
Conduct thorough assessments of passengers, crew, and imported materials
Monitor transitional facilities and ensure adherence to biosecurity protocols
Document findings and maintain detailed records of all inspections
Collaborate with stakeholders including importers, shipping agents, and industry representatives
Enforce biosecurity regulations and take appropriate action when violations are identified
Respond to emergency biosecurity situations and provide expert guidance
Participate in ongoing training and professional development activities
Contribute to team objectives and support continuous improvement initiatives

What We Offer

This role provides exceptional variety - you could be inspecting vessel biosecurity practices in the morning and examining commercial goods in the afternoon. You'll receive comprehensive training through a program that combines classroom theory with hands-on practical experience.

We offer clear career progression opportunities from Officer to Senior to Chief Quarantine Officer for those committed to professional development. You'll join a high-performing, passionate team dedicated to protecting New Zealand while living our organizational values.

The position includes competitive compensation with benefits and allowances that increase with progression, plus the opportunity to work with a diverse and supportive team of officers across New Zealand.

Essential Requirements

New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency (mandatory for security clearance)
Full New Zealand driver's license
Physical fitness and ability to stand for extended periods
Comfort working both indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions
Strong communication skills, both oral and written
Excellent relationship-building abilities with diverse stakeholders
High level of computer literacy and technical proficiency
Self-motivated approach with ability to work independently

Preferred Qualifications

Interest or qualification in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, botany, or environmental science
Work experience in life sciences or related industry
Demonstrated problem-solving and analytical skills
Attention to detail and ability to work under pressure

Training and Development

Successful candidates must attend mandatory core competency training outside of Tauranga at the start of employment. This comprehensive 10-week program occurs across several locations, with accommodation provided during the training period.

Benefits Package

Annual wellness payment
Bi-annual paid eye tests and contribution toward corrective lenses/frames
Reduced premiums for group healthcare schemes
Comprehensive professional development opportunities
Supportive team environment with diverse perspectives

Security Requirements

This position requires Confidential Security Clearance. Candidates must be eligible for national security vetting, and given the safety-sensitive nature of the role, successful applicants will undergo pre-employment drug and alcohol screening.

About Our Team

The Border Clearance Services Team within Biosecurity New Zealand protects New Zealand's natural environment, primary industries, and people against exotic pests and diseases. We're accountable for delivering sustainable and effective frontline biosecurity clearance services at the border for imported goods, vessels, passengers, crew, and transitional facilities.

Our Commitment

We're committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, working closely with iwi, hapu, whanau, and hapori. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, aspiring to reflect the diverse communities we serve.

Interested in this position?

Don't miss out on this opportunity. Apply now and take the next step in your career.

Report this job

About NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

The New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries is a government department responsible for protecting New Zealand's unique environment and agricultural sectors from biosecurity threats. The Ministry operates robust biosecurity systems at border entry points to prevent harmful pests, diseases, and organisms from entering the country. Through its Biosecurity New Zealand division, the Ministry works to safeguard the nation's primary industries, native species, and overall environmental integrity by managing risks and educating the public about biosecurity measures.