Research Assistant - Pukunui/Southern New Zealand Dotterel Conservation
Department of Conservation (DOC)
Remote · Full Time
Be the first to apply
- Experience
- Any
- Salary
- NZD 61,189 – NZD 67,446 / year
- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 1 week ago
- Work mode
- Work from home
- Eligibility
- Applicants must hold a valid New Zealand work visa that covers the entire duration of employment.
- Resume
- Required to apply
Job description
About the Role
The Department of Conservation offers an engaging fixed-term opportunity for a Research Assistant to support conservation efforts focused on the Critically Endangered Pukunui/Southern New Zealand Dotterel on Rakiura Stewart Island. This position entails predominantly field-based work during the breeding season from 21 September 2026 to 15 January 2027.
Primary Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive field surveys and monitor bird populations and nests.
- Install and manage nest cameras to observe breeding activity.
- Collect, organize, and enter data systematically for analysis.
Candidate Skills and Experience
- Demonstrated experience in backcountry environments with proficient off-track navigation capabilities.
- Comfortable working autonomously in isolated and exposed terrain.
- Previous experience with bird monitoring and handling data collection tasks.
- Physically fit to carry heavy equipment during survey activities.
- Good interpersonal skills and an adaptable personality for team cohesion.
Preferred qualifications include specialized training or credentials related to conservation biology, bird handling, and banding techniques.
Work Conditions and Schedule
The role requires living on Rakiura Stewart Island during working periods, residing in basic huts and campsites in sub-alpine, exposed settings. The work schedule follows a 10-days on and 4-days off rotation. Employees may spend their off days at locations of choice but must cover personal travel expenses to and from these locations. The employer provides ferry transport between Invercargill and the island for scheduled shifts.
Application and Eligibility
Applicants must possess a valid New Zealand work visa covering the full term of employment. Submissions should include a CV and cover letter summarizing relevant experience and motivation. Email applications are not accepted. Applicants requiring accommodations during the recruitment process should communicate their needs.
Compensation and Closing Date
The salary range for this position is $61,189 to $67,446 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.
Applications close at 11:59 PM on Tuesday, 28 July 2026.