Ranger

• Varied and rewarding fieldwork – Combine practical pest control, biodiversity monitoring, and engagement work in rugged, remote environments

• Adventure built into the job – Work off-track in mountainous terrain, stay overnight in the field, and experience places many people never see

• The salary range for this position is $60,703 to $66,911

• Permanent, full-time role, based in Nelson Lakes, St Arnaud 

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa 

The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive. 

Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.  

Mō te tūranga | About the role 

How would you like to live and work in one of Aotearoa's stunning National Parks? Enjoy breath-taking scenery and get up close and personal with some of our rarest native species.   

Te Papa Atawhai DOC has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and experienced individual to join us as a Ranger within our close-knit Biodiversity team based in the beautiful Nelson Lakes National Park. You will be supporting the growth of significant conservation opportunities, and the delivery of Biodiversity engagement work plans, in the Nelson Lakes District alongside our Treaty partners. 

Click here for the Role Description 

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience 

You’ll be passionate about achieving positive conservation outcomes and bring a combination of strong communication skills, practical field capability, and sound judgement to support district priorities. You’re someone who can think strategically while also rolling up your sleeves to deliver work on the ground. 

This role requires a high level of physical fitness and confidence working in rugged, remote environments, along with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team. Experience working with mana whenua is highly valued, or you will demonstrate a genuine commitment to developing your cultural capability and building meaningful partnerships. 

We are keen to hear from you if you have: 

• Attention to detail 

• Practical knowledge of plant pests and general plant identification 

• Hands-on experience with pest control methods 

• Confidence working off-track in dense forest and mountainous terrain, with a high level of physical fitness 

• A commitment to continuous improvement and strong health and safety practices 

• A full New Zealand driver licence and availability for overnight stays 

• A current first aid certificate 

• Experience using Microsoft Office, GIS, and related system

• Cultural competency and experience working with mana whenua, including knowledge of Tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori 

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. 

We support flexible work arrangements for our kamahi who are working in a wide variety of roles and locations across Aotearoa. Flexible options will be considered based on your role and in discussion with your leader.  

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. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted. 

If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.  

The salary range for this position is $60,703 to $66,911 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being 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. 

Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.