Senior Adviser (Toxicology) at Ministry for Primary Industries, Wellington City

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Senior Adviser Toxicology 

Role type: Permanent, full-time 40 hours per week 

Location: Wellington City 

Salary band & range: General Salary Range D: $100,934 to $118,005 depending on skills and experience  

Looking for your next big move? Wellington invites you to bring your toxicology expertise to a city celebrated for its innovation, scientific leadership, and warm, community-minded feel.

From its dynamic research environment to its easy access to wild coastlines, native bush tracks, and world‑class dining, Wellington blends professional opportunity with a lifestyle that restores and motivates. Whether you're strolling the waterfront after work or exploring the region's hills and bays, you'll quickly see why people fall in love with the capital.

As part of MPI, you'll also have access to a wide range of social networks, employee groups, and community events that offer opportunities to connect, grow, and get involved. Depending on your situation, relocation support may be available to help make your move as smooth as possible.

About the Role - Kōrero mō te Tūranga

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact on public health and food safety in New Zealand?

We're looking for a skilled and motivated Senior Adviser with expertise in human health toxicology to help tackle critical chemical and contaminant issues across the food and primary industries. Your analytical expertise will drive clear, evidence-based advice that informs regulatory decisions and protects consumers.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives both independently and in cross-disciplinary teams, with a knack for turning complex data into actionable insights. You'll play a key role in shaping food safety regulations and policy – both nationally and on the international stage.

You'll lead research projects, contribute to strategic initiatives, and build strong relationships across NZFS and with external partners, including research providers, public health agencies, international regulators, and industry stakeholders.

About You – Mōu

You're confident working with both quantitative and qualitative data, able to draw insights, use information appropriately – even when incomplete – and translate findings into clear, narrative-rich advice. You approach divergent international views on toxicology with a critical yet open mind and provide sound technical advice on potential human health effects from chemicals and contaminants in food.

These issues can attract significant public, media, and international attention, especially when high-profile. That's why strong technical writing skills and the ability to communicate complex science to diverse audiences – from Ministers to consumers – are essential.

 To be successful, you will have the following:

• Experience in toxicology – preferably food, chemical analysis, risk assessment (qualitative and quantitative), and regulatory toxicology, with knowledge of national and international trends.
• Strong data analysis capabilities, peer-review experience, and the ability to design and manage toxicology studies and surveys.
• Skilled in translating complex scientific concepts for diverse audiences, effectively communicating risk to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Experienced in managing stakeholder relationships and representing NZFS in national and international forums.
• Excellent writing, time management, and interpersonal skills, with sound judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to challenge norms and think strategically.
• A postgraduate qualification in toxicology is essential; complementary expertise in food science, public health, or environmental health is highly valued. 

About the Team - Mō tō mātou Rōpū

The Food Science & Risk Assessment Directorate plays a specialised role in delivering science and risk assessment advice that underpins the development of robust food safety standards. This advice supports both internal stakeholders across MPI and external partners, including industry, consumers, and research funders. Science and risk assessment are essential inputs that inform decision-making and operational delivery at every stage.

Following internationally recognised procedures, the Food Risk Assessment team provides expert advice on food-related risks and the likely impact of control measures. These assessments inform risk managers across MPI, helping them identify and implement the most effective regulatory responses.

As a toxicologist in this team, you'll work closely with the Manager of Food Risk Assessment and collaborate with a dedicated group of toxicologists from diverse scientific backgrounds. You'll also engage across MPI teams, contributing to cross-functional initiatives that shape New Zealand's food safety landscape.

About MPI - Mō te Manatū Ahu Matua

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) partners with New Zealand's food and fibre sector to be the world's most trusted provider of high-value food and fibre products.

To find out more about the Ministry and what we do please click here.

Benefits of working at MPI - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Ahu Matua

• Additional MPI leave days
• Annual Wellness payment
• Bi-annual paid eye test and contribution to the costs of corrective lenses/frames

Are you ready to make a difference? - Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi whaitake?
 
We are committed to being a good partner under Te Tiriti o Waitangi which includes working closely with iwi, hapū, whānau and hāpori.

We aspire to reflect the diverse communities we serve, so we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, and identities. As an organisation, we are committed to making Manatū Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries a great place to work for all.

In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values; your interest and motivations for this role; the abilities, strengths, personal attributes and diverse perspectives you will bring to the role and this organisation, which may have also been gained outside of the workforce.

To view the position description and/or apply online, please click “Apply” or visit the MPI Careers Site. To apply, you must hold the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it – click here to find out more about work visa eligibility and options.

Applications close at 11:59pm on Thursday 16th April 2026.

If you have any questions about the role, please email Abby.Walker@mpi.govt.nz

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