Job Description

• Lead a high‑impact team protecting the health and wellbeing of Aucklanders every day
• Drive strategic public health initiatives that shape the future of Tāmaki Makaurau
• Influence system‑wide improvements while building a culture of excellence and collaboration

Lead the Future of Public Health in Tāmaki Makaurau

Auckland Council is looking for an inspiring leader to take charge of our Environmental Health Response team — a group dedicated to protecting the wellbeing of our communities every single day. If you’re driven, strategic, and ready to make a measurable impact across Aotearoa’s largest city, this role puts you right where the action is.

He angitūtanga: The Opportunity

As our Team Leader Environmental Health Response, you’ll lead a high‑performing team across food safety, public health, hazardous substances, and noise control. Under a risk-based regulating approach you’ll shape strategic initiatives that reduce risk, strengthen community trust, and deliver better outcomes for Aucklanders. This is a role where your leadership directly influences the health of our city.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Ensuring all work aligns with good regulatory practice and a risk-based regulating approach

• Driving strategic public health initiatives that reduce risk and improve community outcomes

• Leading, developing, and empowering a skilled team of Environmental Health professionals
• Ensuring high‑quality service delivery, meeting SLAs, KPIs, and statutory timeframes
• Embedding continuous improvement, innovation, and a customer‑centric mindset
• Managing budgets and resources to deliver efficient, effective services
• Providing expert guidance on complex environmental health issues and escalations
• Championing cross‑council collaboration and strengthening Auckland Council’s reputation
• Upholding legislative compliance, including the Food Act, Health Act, RMA, and more

This is a role for someone who thrives in complexity, leads with confidence, and enjoys turning challenges into opportunities for better public outcomes.

He kōrero mōu: About You

You’re an experienced environmental health professional who brings both technical depth and leadership strength. You know how to inspire teams, navigate legislation, and deliver results in a fast‑moving environment.

You’ll bring:

• A tertiary qualification in environmental health (or equivalent under the 1993 Regulations)
• 5+ years’ experience in environmental health or a related field
• 3+ years’ leadership experience in an Environmental Health or similar environment
• Strong legislative knowledge and the ability to interpret and apply it confidently
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences
• Political acumen and the ability to work effectively with elected representatives
• A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tikanga, and working within Māori paradigms
• A collaborative, solutions‑focused mindset and the ability to adapt quickly
• A current NZ driver licence

You’re someone who leads with purpose, builds trust, and knows how to bring out the best in people. Most importantly, you care deeply about the health and safety of Aucklanders.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

Tono Mai: Apply Now!

Application close date: 11 March 2026

Salary range: $119,000 to $140,000 per annum (based on skills and experience)

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This role is deemed safety-sensitive and in line with Auckland Council policy, you will be required to complete pre-employment drug and alcohol testing.

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer. We serve the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, educational background, or religious beliefs. We also welcome applications from our Rainbow communities as well as disabled and neurodivergent people. We are committed to making our hiring process accessible to everyone. If you require any support or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.