Ranger Biodiversity, Heritage and Visitor Management - Te Hauturu-o-Toi Island

Position Overview

This full-time Ranger opportunity is based on Te Hauturu-o-Toi / Little Barrier Island and offers a unique chance to contribute directly to the preservation and restoration of one of New Zealand's most important conservation treasures. The role involves living full-time on the island with provided accommodation, working as part of a two-ranger team on a Monday to Friday schedule with potential for contract extension.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support a seasonal team dedicated to weed control to protect the island's delicate ecosystems.
• Manage biodiversity and weed control programs aimed at maintaining and enhancing conservation outcomes.
• Conduct biodiversity monitoring and participate in ecological restoration projects.
• Assist in safeguarding the island’s cultural, heritage, and visitor values.
• Collaborate effectively with iwi, contractors, and other partners to meet conservation objectives.
• Operate safely in a demanding remote island environment and oversee safe field operations.

Required Skills and Experience

• Strong backcountry and physical fitness skills, comfortable with work in remote and isolated settings.
• Experience with biosecurity, weed and predator control, trapping, and ecological monitoring.
• Practical knowledge in infrastructure maintenance including solar, septic, and water systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, including a capacity to work collaboratively with iwi and tangata whenua.
• Proven ability to manage teams and work independently under pressure.
• Proficiency with planning, organizational tasks, and computer systems.
• Valid New Zealand Driver Licence, preferably including manual transmission.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience or certification in chainsaw operation, scrub bar use, and LUV driving.
• Skipper’s license or willingness to obtain one.
• Current First Aid certification.

Additional Information

This role entails residing permanently on the island and offers a salary between $65,590 and $76,589 annually, depending on experience and skills. The initial contract is for three years with the option to extend for two additional years. Candidates must hold a valid New Zealand work visa covering the full employment period. The Department of Conservation promotes a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace and supports the development of specialized qualifications. Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday, 11th August, and adjustments during recruitment can be accommodated upon request.