Operational Assistant in the National Geohazards Monitoring Center (NGMC)

Application process

A completed online application must be submitted by 4.30 pm 22 September 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Any required supporting documentation (including references) must also be received by 4.30 pm on the closing date in order for the application to be considered.

Project number

137

Project description

Applicants must be Māori, or of Māori descent.

Our summer scholarship program offers scholars an exciting and rewarding experience, supported by a team of 15 passionate and skilled professionals who are eager to share their knowledge. In a collaborative and welcoming environment, scholars can explore new ideas, access a variety of resources, and benefit from different perspectives. With personalised guidance from the team, each scholar is encouraged to grow, learn, and make the most of every opportunity throughout the program.

This project is designed to enhancing the capability and impact of the NGMC Operational Assistant (OA) role to ensure sustained contribution to both business-as-usual operations and emergency response activities. Through a structured programme of development, assessment, and collaboration, the initiative will deliver improvements in operational resilience and effectiveness as well as organisational partnerships.

The first deliverable centres on building the OA’s core competencies, equipping the role with the knowledge, skills, and confidence required to operate effectively across routine and response functions. This will be achieved through targeted training, mentoring, and applied learning opportunities within the Centre’s operational environment.

To assess progress and inform ongoing development, the OA will participate in structured exercises and scenario-based simulations. These controlled activities are designed to provide objective insights into current performance, highlight strengths, and identify specific opportunities for targeted growth and changes in the NGMC training programme. The outcomes will inform a tailored development pathway, ensuring training evolves in alignment with organisational needs.

A further key deliverable is the successful delivery of an Iwi-Māori engagement project, undertaken in collaboration with the Māori Partnerships team and GeoNet. This initiative will contribute to strengthening relationships, embedding inclusive practices, and delivering outcomes that support organisational and programme objectives.

Together, these outcomes will position the student in the OA role as a more capable and adaptable contributor to operations. By combining targeted skill development, structured performance evaluation, and collaborative engagement, the project will strengthen organisational readiness, enhance partnership outcomes, and ensure the Centre is better equipped to meet both current and future demands.

This project is for multiple students.

Skills and characteristics

Second year or above Geology, Geophysics, Geography or Earth Sciences degree.

Role of the student within the research project

Become an Operational Assistant, support the development and execution of exercises and help the NGMC better engage with iwi-Māori communities.

Benefits for the student assigned to this project

Understanding different aspects of emergency management, post incident debriefing and presentation creation and help us better connect with iwi-Maori communities.

Location

Mainly at the provider's premises or remotely.