Biosecurity officer
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours but may work extra hours
- Usually work in offices and outdoors and may travel locally
- May work in all weather and hazardous conditions involving chemicals
- Need to be practical, responsible and safety conscious
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Inspect plants, land and water for pests
- Ensure compliance with pest laws
- Report on legal breaches of pest issues
- Develop pest management policies
- Manage pest removal and restoration projects
- Advise landowners on pest control
- Collect data on pest control trials
- Educate the public on pest control
- Arrange for pest removal
Outlook
Biosecurity remains a top priority in New Zealand, especially with increasing global trade and travel and the impacts of climate change. The sector is evolving to manage more complex risks, including new pests and diseases and changing pathways for them to enter the country. There is a growing focus on stronger systems, better data use, and collaboration across government, industry and communities to protect the environment and economy.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong attention to detail and observation skills
- Ability to follow rules and enforce regulations
- Good decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Confidence communicating with the public and stakeholders
- Interest in environmental protection and primary industries
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Further study options
Content is reviewed by our experts, but information can change over time. Some content is created with AI support.
This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.