Ranger Community - Conservation Engagement Specialist

About the Role

This position offers a unique opportunity to foster conservation efforts in Central Otago by cultivating meaningful collaborations with iwi, community groups, volunteers, local businesses, and various stakeholders to achieve significant environmental benefits. Based in either the Wānaka or Alexandra office, this permanent full-time role supports our vision of thriving nature in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa.

As a Community Ranger, you will serve as a pivotal connector who nurtures community involvement in conservation initiatives. Your work involves fostering partnerships that enhance participation and engagement with conservation projects across the district. The role encompasses community outreach alongside contributions to statutory planning and land management duties related to public conservation lands.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing and sustaining strong relationships with iwi, community groups, businesses, councils, and conservation partners.
• Supporting and coordinating community-driven conservation projects and initiatives.
• Identifying growth opportunities for conservation through collaboration and partnerships.
• Providing administrative support, liaison, and advocacy to amplify conservation efforts involving diverse stakeholders.
• Engaging with local communities to promote and encourage active participation in conservation.
• Overseeing commercial and private activities on public conservation land and maintaining accurate data records.
• Contributing expert input to Resource Management Act planning and statutory land management activities.

Required Skills and Experience

• Exceptional organizational and communication abilities coupled with strong relationship-building skills.
• A proactive mindset with prioritization and sound decision-making capabilities.
• Experience juggling multiple workstreams and competing tasks efficiently.
• A passionate advocate for conservation, committed to empowering others to participate.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
• Possession of a valid New Zealand driver’s license.
• Willingness to engage outside the office environment through meetings and site visits.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with the Central Otago region.
• Background working in partnership with iwi, community groups, local government, businesses, or conservation organizations.
• Experience coordinating volunteer programs or community projects.
• Knowledge of statutory and regulatory frameworks, including Resource Management Act processes and conservation land management.

Benefits

The Department of Conservation fosters an inclusive and supportive culture where diversity and equity are valued. Employees are encouraged to participate, grow, and thrive within a values-driven environment committed to a diverse and equitable workplace.

Additional Information

• Salary ranges from $65,590 to $76,589 annually, based on experience and skills.
• This is a permanent, full-time position located onsite at either the Wānaka or Alexandra office.
• Candidates must hold a valid New Zealand work visa for the employment duration.
• No emails will be accepted for applications; only online submissions with a CV and cover letter describing relevant experience and motivation are considered.
• Recruitment agencies are not involved in this hiring process.
• The final date to apply is 11:59 pm on Monday, 24 August 2026.