Building Official - 2 Year Fixed-Term
Job No:
ADC92
Location:
Ashburton
Be part of something big. Build safer communities. Enjoy the ride.
Are you ready for a role where you’re out and about, solving real‑world challenges, supporting builders and homeowners, and helping shape the future of our district? If you love variety, people, problem‑solving, and the construction world — this is your chance to shine.
This is a 2‑year fixed term role created to boost our team’s capacity during an exciting, high‑growth period.
What the job involves (It’s never dull!)
Get ready for a role that blends hands‑on technical skill, on‑the‑ground action, and big community impact. As a Building Official, you’ll be the expert people turn to — the one who keeps projects on track, safe, and compliant.
You’ll:
- Get deep into the detail of building consents and PIMs — interpreting plans, assessing risk, and making sound technical decisions that shape how projects progress.
- Head out on‑site to carry out inspections that truly matter — checking foundations, structural elements, plumbing, drainage, fire safety systems, and more. If it’s in the Building Code, you’ll be across it.
- Apply your technical judgement to identify issues early, coach builders and homeowners through solutions, and make confident calls that keep work safe and compliant.
- Investigate problems like a pro — from non‑compliant builds to pool barriers and safety concerns — using your regulatory knowledge to determine what’s going on and what needs to happen next.
- Use your enforcement skills when required, issuing Notices to Fix and ensuring corrective work meets the mark.
- Be the frontline expert, turning complex regulations into clear, practical advice that helps people get it right the first time.
- Balance analysis and action — one moment you’re reviewing technical documentation, the next you’re on‑site checking real‑world outcomes.
This is a role for someone who loves technical work and loves seeing their decisions make a visible difference.
For more information, view the position description – click here.
Who are we looking for?
We’re after someone who’s confident, curious, and capable. You’ll have:
- 5+ years’ experience in the construction industry
- A relevant NZQA Level 6+ qualification (Building Surveying, Construction, Architecture, Engineering etc.)
- Excellent communication skills — you’re clear, calm, and people trust you
- A sharp eye for detail and the ability to make good calls
- A customer‑first mindset and the ability to build positive relationships
If you enjoy being the go‑to expert people rely on — you’ll thrive here.
What we can offer you
This position is guaranteed to provide you with a variety of work, based within a supportive team who are dedicated to the success of our organisation. Your career will grow through on the job and external training opportunities, plus our new building will provide a work environment that will be the envy of most.
Benefits of being part of our team include:
- Professional development opportunities
- Health benefits
- Birthday leave and the ability to purchase additional leave.
- Brand new Library and Civic Centre building in the heart of the CBD
- Sociable & family friendly work environment
For more benefits available, click here.
About Us
Ashburton District Council (ADC) is a dynamic, forward‑thinking local government organisation supporting one of New Zealand’s fastest‑growing and thriving communities. With a diverse and passionate workforce of around 300 people, ADC offers a workplace where you can genuinely make an impact, shape the future of the district, and build a career you’re proud of.
At ADC, you won’t get lost in the crowd — our size means you’ll enjoy varied work, broader responsibilities, and real collaboration across teams.
If you’re still on the fence, check out our recruitment video and see what ADC has to offer!
Ready to help build safer, smarter communities? Join us and put your expertise to work. Applications close 1 February 2026.
