Solid Waste Operations & Contracts Specialist

Napier City Council is committed to delivering reliable, sustainable waste services that support our community today and protect our environment for the future. We’re on the lookout for a skilled and experienced professional to help us manage our solid waste operations and drive forward our waste minimisation goals.

As our Solid Waste Operations & Contract Specialist, you’ll play a vital role in making sure kerbside collections, transfer station services, and wider waste initiatives run smoothly, efficiently, and in line with Napier City Council’s Waste Management and Minimisation Plan and regulations. You’ll be at the heart of contract and operational management—leading procurement, monitoring performance, managing risks, and ensuring contractors and partners deliver on expectations.

Equally, this role is about looking ahead. From promoting recycling and diversion initiatives to supporting education and behaviour change programmes and bylaw enforcement, you’ll help shape innovative, community-focused solutions that reduce waste to landfill and build a cleaner, greener Napier.

Te Āheinga - The Opportunity

• Act as Council’s representative for solid waste contracts, ensuring reliable kerbside and transfer station services.
• Lead procurement and tender processes, including service specifications, evaluations, and negotiations.
• Monitor contract compliance, analyse data, and manage budgets to drive informed decision-making.
• Build strong relationships with contractors, colleagues, and community stakeholders to support seamless service delivery.
• Support and promote waste minimisation initiatives, from education campaigns to community diversion programmes.
• Respond to customer enquiries and service requests, maintaining high levels of community satisfaction.

He kōrero mōhou - About You

• Relevant qualifications or significant experience in waste operations, contract management, and procurement (local government experience an advantage).
• Strong knowledge of NZ contract frameworks and waste minimisation practices.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills, with the ability to balance competing demands.
• A collaborative, solutions-focused approach and commitment to continuous improvement, integrity, and public safety.
• A current Class 1 NZ Driver’s Licence.

Ngā painga mōhou - What we Offer

• 5 weeks annual leave after 2 years service
• Discounted Health Insurance Work Scheme + Eye Test Subsidy
• Retailer Discounts + Study assistance
• Employee Assistance Program (OCP)
• Quarterly values awards + Birthday vouchers + Social club
• Free flu vaccinations (annual)
• Ka Awatea Cultural Wānanga + NCC Kapa Haka
• Te Reo Māori language classes

This is a permanent, full time opportunity working 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday. You will be based in Napier CBD.

The annual salary package for this role is between $91,400 - $107,500 (including KiwiSaver), with the final offer depending on your skills and experience.

Applications for this role close on 31 October 2025, however due to the highly competitive employment market we will be interviewing applications as we receive them and may close the role when we have found the right person. Please do not delay in making your application.

He kōrero mō Te Kaunihera o Ahuriri - About NCC

At Napier City Council, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and work to make our hiring process fair and accessible. If you need any support or adjustments during your application or interview, let us know—we’re happy to help!

Our success is grounded in strong partnerships with Mana Whenua and Iwi, supported by our Māori Partnerships team, Te Waka Rangapū, which builds cultural capability through education and training.

Before you join, you’ll need to complete pre-employment checks (including drug testing, with some roles requiring health screening). As an NCC employee, you may also be called on to support Civil Defence emergencies when our community needs us most.

Please visit Napier City Council Careers website to see full job description

Job Description – Solid Waste Operations & Contracts Specialist