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GIS Team Leader

Feilding, New Zealand

Reference: 6724421

We're looking for an experienced, data-loving, customer focused GIS star to join our Information Services Team. We want to take our geospatial capabilities to the next level. If you're passionate about GIS, enjoy solving complex challenges with data, and thrive in a technical leadership role—this could be your opportunity to make a real impact!

About Us

With around 200 staff, the Manawatū District Council is big enough to provide career growth and progression opportunities, but small enough that you can get to know everyone in the team. We're committed to delivering great services and making a real difference for our community.

We're deeply connected to our rural roots, yet forward-thinking in our approach to delivering services that support a connected, vibrant, and thriving Manawatū.

About the Role

As our GIS Team Leader, you will lead the development, implementation, and management of cutting-edge geospatial solutions that support key council initiatives. You'll play a pivotal role in shaping data-driven decision-making across various departments, mentoring a GIS Officer, and working with key stakeholders to enhance our geospatial capabilities.

What You'll Do

  • Conduct advanced spatial analysis, generate insights, and create high-quality maps to support strategic projects (District Plan, Long Term Plan, etc.).
  • Develop custom GIS tools, applications, and dashboards to streamline workflows and enhance data visualization.
  • Oversee geospatial data management, ensuring accuracy and compliance with best practices.
  • Lead GIS-related projects—managing timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
  • Provide training and mentorship to staff to elevate GIS expertise across the organisation.
  • Support emergency management efforts with GIS-based data-driven decision-making.

What You'll Bring

  • A degree in GIS, Geography, IT, or a related field—or equivalent relevant experience.
  • 5+ years' experience in GIS analysis, data modelling, and development.
  • Expertise in spatial data management, geoprocessing workflows, and GIS software (ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, etc.).
  • Strong scripting/automation skills (Python, SQL, or FME).
  • Leadership experience (formal or informal), with a passion for mentoring and developing others.
  • The ability to translate technical concepts into clear, actionable insights for non-technical audiences.
  • Experience in cloud-based GIS platforms (ArcGIS Online, AWS, Azure) is a plus!

Why Join Us?

  • Work in a progressive, future-focused organisation making a difference in the community.
  • Enjoy the lifestyle perks of working in Feilding—a vibrant rural town with a great sense of community and a genuinely family-friendly environment.
  • Ongoing professional development and career growth opportunities.
  • A workplace culture that values innovation, collaboration, and a good sense of humour!
  • A salary in the range of $97k - $115k, with 5 weeks' annual leave

Ready to Lead the Way in GIS?

If you're excited about taking the next step in your GIS career and want to be part of a supportive, innovative, and forward-thinking team, we'd love to hear from you.

How to apply

Sound like you? Please click the ‘apply' button below and then attach your Cover Letter and CV. For a confidential discussion about the role, contact Marko Blagojevic, Information Services Manager at marko.blagojevic@mdc.govt.nz or on 021 297 2468.

Applications Close: 23 Feb 2025

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How to Apply

Applying for any of our jobs is simple. We like to get as much information as we can before making a decision on who we would like to interview, so please set aside 10-15 minutes of your time to tell us about yourself. The process involves three steps:

  1. Find the position you are interested in

Using our website’s search feature, search by keyword or enter a job code if you have seen the position advertised.  Alternatively, you can view all our current job listings on our Vacancies page.

  1. Answer the questionnaire

This is up to 20 questions, which are designed to provide us with a little more information about you.  Answering these questions allows us to process your application more efficiently.

  1. Upload your CV

If you have a CV, you can upload it and your cover letter into our system by following a couple of simple steps.  If you don’t have a CV, it is worth spending some time preparing one before starting the application process.  Please ensure your file is no larger than 2MB.

What happens next?

We will send you an email confirming we have received your application.  Once the recruitment closes, our interview panel will then review all the applications.  If you are successful in being short-listed for an interview then a member of our friendly People and Culture team will contact you with your interview details including if there is any practical exercise involved with your interview.  If your application is not successful in getting an interview then you will receive an email from us advising you of this.

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