Website Department of Conservation
- Monitor nature. Explore Aotearoa. Do mahi that matters
- Purpose meets Adventure — this is not your average 9–5
- Fixed-term full-times roles based in Palmerston North, Rotorua, Invercargill, Hokitika & Te Anau
- Multiple Biodiversity Monitoring positions available from September 2026 – check out our Careers Site to see all listings
- The salary range for this position is $65,590 to $75,589
Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa
Mō te tūranga | About the role
Based fixed-term across Palmerston North, Rotorua, Invercargill, Hokitika & Te Anau, this is your chance to get out into some of Aotearoa’s most incredible places and play a hands-on role in monitoring and protecting biodiversity.
As a Biodiversity Monitoring Ranger, you’ll contribute to DOC’s National Monitoring Operations Programme by collecting high-quality data and supporting conservation outcomes across a range of ecosystems, projects and services.
You will:
- Collect a range of data across diverse and often remote locations
- Work in small, tight-knit teams in backcountry environments
- Support the delivery of national monitoring programme
- Contribute to data management, reporting, and field preparation
- Manage data entry, quality assurance, and reporting
- Use electronic devices and systems to capture and process information
- Communicate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders
This is a practical, field-based role with opportunities to build your skills and experience while making a real impact. It requires both physical capability and strong attention to detail—balancing hands-on work in the field with thoughtful planning and data management behind the scenes.
The field season runs a unique schedule, from September to March. Typically working 12–14 days on followed by 5–6 days off, with extended backcountry deployments. During this time, you’ll often be away from your home base for the duration of each trip. Outside of the field season, work shifts to planning, preparation, and supporting ongoing operations on a more regular schedule.
Think: multi-day trips, meaningful mahi, and work that positively affects our taiao.
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
You’re someone who enjoys working outdoors, thrives in a team environment, and is motivated by contributing to conservation outcomes.
We’re keen to hear from you if you have:
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in small teams
- Confidence working in backcountry environments
- A high level of physical fitness, including pack carrying and off-track travel
- Willingness and ability to spend regular extended periods (up to two weeks) away from home
- Experience in biodiversity monitoring, pest control, or field-based data collection
- Attention to detail and confidence recording accurate data
- Confidence using Microsoft Office Suite
- A genuine commitment to working in partnership with whānau, hapū and iwi, with a strong appreciation of Te Ao Māori
- A full New Zealand driver’s licence
Desirable:
- First Aid certification
- A qualification in science, conservation, or natural heritage
- GIS capability (e.g. ArcGIS)
Mō te tīma | About the team
The Monitoring Operations Team is a nationally distributed group with bases across Aotearoa. Each team delivers fieldwork within their region, contributing to nationally consistent monitoring programmes.
- Work in small teams (typically 2–8 people)
- Spend time in remote and unique environments
- Be part of a supportive, passionate, and purpose-driven team
- Balance fieldwork with planning and preparation in the off-season
This is a team that works hard, supports each other, and is proud of the impact they make.
Check out some of the awesome mahi the field operations teams at Te Papa Atawhai contribute to:
He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | 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.
Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now
Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai.
As part of your application, you will be required to complete a short questionnaire in the careers centre. Please allow additional time to complete this step.
If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
The salary range for this position is $65,590 to $75,589 with the starting salary of the successful applicant 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.
Next Steps in the Recruitment Process
Candidates who are shortlisted will progress to the next stage of the recruitment process, which involves completing a Vieple video submission.
Please ensure you are available to complete and submit your video interview within the required timeframe:
- Invitation will be sent from: 4 June 2026
- Completion timeframe: Applicants will have one week to complete the video submission from the invitation date
Further instructions will be provided to shortlisted candidates.
Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday 27 May 2026.
Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Loren Butler, Supervisor Biodiversity Monitoring, lbutler@doc.govt.nz
