Ranger Biodiversity – Department of Conservation – Takaka

• Are you looking for a role that has the best of both worlds with lots of variety – half time in the office, half time out in the field monitoring native species and undertaking pest control based in the beautiful Golden Bay?  
• The salary range for this position is $60,314 to $75,603.  
• Permanent, full-time position based in Tākaka. 

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa 

The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature spaces and species across Aotearoa. 

Tangata whenua are inextricably linked to the whenua and te taiao, and we desire a future where whānau, hapū and iwi can thrive in their role as rangatira and kaitiaki. 

Tō tātou taiāo. Tō tātou hītori. He tāonga tūturu nō Aotearoa. Maioha rawatia. Poipoia rawatia. Tukua. 

Our nature. Our history. It’s New Zealand’s unique legacy. Enjoy it. Enrich it. Pass it on. 

He angitūtanga | About the role 

Tākaka is settled between the Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks and is home to a variety of vulnerable fauna species including birds, lizards, fish and invertebrates   

As a senior member of the biodiversity team you will be responsible for leading the planning, management, delivery and reporting of biodiversity fauna projects and support with the National Predator Control Programme outcomes in the Tākaka District. You will also be involved in the wider biodiversity duties such as pest plant and predator control and emergency response for fire and marine mammal strandings as and when required. There is an element of team leadership in this role, as you will be expected to organize and lead back country trips over multiple days. In this role, you will be   You will also be involved in the planning and implementation of our district compliance programme and subsequent investigations.  

The position will be focussed on: 

• Understanding, prioritising and planning the Fauna annual work programme.  
• Gathering species data from the field and report on findings.  
• Working with technical advisors to scope and develop monitoring protocols for species where there are currently undefined survey methods, or where management priorities have changed.   
• Supporting with the organisation of aerial and ground-based pest control planning.  
• Leading small teams in the field and manage health and safety.  
• Undertaking Compliance checks and subsequent investigations to uphold the Wildlife act.  
• Developing and maintaining collaborative relationships with internal teams, whānau, hapū, iwi, and external stakeholders.  
• Facilitating the sharing of ideas and resources to achieve conservation outcomes.  

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience 

If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you: 

• Current full New Zealand driver’s license, ability to drive manual is desirable.  
• Relevant qualification or biodiversity experience with species monitoring and handling.  
• Animal Pest Operational Planning qualification or relevant experience in outcome based predator control operations.   
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.  
• Warranted officer training or equivalent experience communicating with others in challenging environments.  
• Outstanding planning and organisational skills, with attention to detail and commitment to achieving team objectives.   
• Commitment to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and working in true partnership with others across DOC, with local whānau, hapū and iwi, and external stakeholders.   
• Backcountry experience, high level of physical fitness and competence in rugged and remote terrain and be prepared to stay away from home for 3-5 days in the backcountry as required.  
• Technology savvy skills with the ability to use Microsoft Office suite, GIS and other systems.  
• Strong health and safety work practices and able to promote this culture among colleagues.  
• A high level of independence along with experience working alone in the field as well as the ability to lead and coach a team.  

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What’s in it for you? 

DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow.  We’re working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default.  You can learn more about what we offer here. 

Tono ināianei | Apply now 

Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted. 

If you require any accommodations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know.  

The salary range for this position is $60,314 to $75,603 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory – this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment. 

Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.  

Rā katinga | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday 14 October 2024 

Me he pātai anō | For further enquiries, contact Amanda Harvey, Supervisor, aharvey@doc.govt.nz 

Taupānga | Job reference: DOC/1820735