Ranger/Project Lead Biodiversity (Fixed Term)

About the Role

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is dedicated to safeguarding Aotearoa New Zealand's rich natural and historical heritage for current and future generations. Within the Regional Operations Group, frontline conservation efforts are driven to protect and enhance diverse ecosystems, species, and locations.

We invite applications for a fixed-term Ranger Project Lead Biodiversity position, based in the Northern North Island Region, that supports the delivery of significant operational initiatives. The successful candidate will oversee the Northland Sea Spurge Management Programme, working closely with MPI, regional councils, Treaty Partners, and other stakeholders to protect coastal ecosystems from invasive sea spurge plants. The role covers a wide geographic range from Cape Reinga to Bethell’s Beach (Te Henga) and includes regular regional travel.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage operational projects, including planning, coordination, reporting, budgeting, and ensuring health and safety compliance.
• Manage contractors, teams, and resources effectively to meet project goals.
• Provide field leadership while overseeing daily operations and project administration.
• Implement the Northland Sea Spurge Programme encompassing surveillance, control, monitoring, and compliance with MPI protocols.
• Maintain GIS and spatial data for programme monitoring and support.
• Develop communications materials, and regularly report on performance, finances, and stakeholder engagement.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with whānau, hapū, iwi, communities, contractors, and partner agencies.
• Participate in national sea spurge initiatives, including attending relevant meetings, conferences, and working groups.

Skills and Experience

• Proven background in conservation, environmental management, biosecurity, or related operational fieldwork.
• Experience planning, executing, reporting, and managing budgets for projects or programmes.
• Familiarity with invasive species, pest plants, or biosecurity management programmes.
• Understanding of coastal ecosystems and New Zealand's biosecurity frameworks.
• Ability to work autonomously, prioritize tasks, and take initiative.
• Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and partnership-oriented conservation approaches.
• Strong communication and relationship-building capabilities with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience coordinating personnel and resources to deliver project outcomes.
• Competency in GIS, GPS, or other spatial mapping technologies.
• Excellent writing skills for documentation, reporting, planning, and health and safety purposes.
• Willingness and ability to travel frequently throughout Northland.
• Possession of a current full New Zealand driver’s license.

Additional Details

This full-time position is fixed term through June 2027, with a possibility of extension depending on funding availability. The role reports to the Principal Ranger and can be based in DOC offices located in Dargaville, Whangārei, Pēwhairangi, or Kaitāia.

Salary is commensurate with skills and experience, ranging from NZ$69,429 to NZ$88,181 annually.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a valid New Zealand work visa covering the full duration of employment. Recruitment agencies will not be engaged for this vacancy.

Applications close promptly at 11:59 pm on Sunday, 9 August 2026. Early applications are encouraged as the advertisement may close ahead of this date.

Contact Information

For further information, contact Jordan Winiata, Senior Technical Advisor, via email.

Our Commitment

DOC strives to foster a workplace culture that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion, supporting team members to thrive and grow. Flexible working arrangements are considered based on role requirements and discussion with supervisors.