Environmental Research Scientist - Contaminants and Water Quality
Location: Nelson,Aotearoa New Zealand | Full-time, Permanent
Salary: NZ $87,000 – $120,000 (depending on skills and experience)
Join Cawthron Institute and contribute to applied research and consultancy that helps protect and restore Aotearoa New Zealand's freshwater and coastal environments. Work alongside passionate experts and help shape solutions for some of Aotearoa's most pressing environmental challenges.
What you'll do
We are seeking an Environmental Research Scientist – Contaminants and Water Quality to contribute scientific expertise to multidisciplinary research and consulting projects, with a particular focus on water quality, contaminant fate and effects, and environmental monitoring and assessment. You will work alongside experienced scientists and project teams, contributing to scientifically robust outcomes that support both client and research objectives.
This role is well suited to an applied scientist who enjoys tackling complex problems, delivering high quality outputs, and growing their research, project delivery, and proposal experience within a supportive, collaborative environment.
For more information please click here to view the Role Description (available via our careers page).
What you'll bring
* A postgraduate qualification, typically a MSc or PhD, in environmental science, chemistry, water quality, ecotoxicology, or a related discipline, with ideally 5 years' experience in a research or commercial environment.
* Technical skills relevant to water quality and contaminants, such as environmental monitoring, data analysis, contaminant processes, or assessment of environmental effects.
* Experience contributing to research and or consultancy projects, including scientific analysis, reporting, and communication of results.
* Strong writing skills, with the ability to clearly communicate scientific ideas and results in reports, proposals, and client deliverables.
* The ability to build and maintain constructive working relationships with colleagues, clients, and partners in a collaborative project environment.
* Exposure to research proposal or consultancy bid development is desirable.
* Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail, with sound scientific judgement when working on complex environmental problems.
* Ideally, experience in benthic ecology across both soft-sediment and rocky reef environments, with the ability to plan, coordinate, and undertake fieldwork.
* Strong computer literacy skills including with MS Office Suite.
If you think you have what it takes, but don't meet every single bullet point above, we encourage you to get in touch regardless to see if you could be a great fit for our team.
Why Cawthron?
Cawthron Institute is New Zealand's largest independent science organisation, delivering innovative solutions for sustainable aquaculture, seafood safety, and environmental protection. You'll join a supportive team that values collaboration, integrity, and impact.
Benefits of Working at Cawthron
* Flexible working arrangementsto support work-life balance.
* Professional development opportunitiesto grow your skills and career.
* Health and wellbeing initiatives, including access to wellness programmes.
* A collaborative and inclusive culturewhere your contribution makes a real difference.
* The chance to work inbeautiful Nelson, surrounded by a stunning natural environment.
How to apply:
If you are interested in joining our team, please apply via our careers page with your CV and a cover letter, outlining what you can bring to the role.
At Cawthron, we are committed to upholding equitable and inclusive practices. If there are accommodations that we can provide to support you throughout the recruitment process, or for any questions about the role, please emailrecruitment@cawthron.org.nz .
Applications close:21 June 2026 at 5:00pm
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