Question
FULL_TIME
2-5

Project Administrator

3/15/2026

Key responsibilities include processing invoices, tracking budgets for accurate financial reporting, and maintaining monitoring and compliance records to fulfill program obligations. The role also involves inputting and managing GIS data, assisting with drafting job prescriptions, and compiling control data for analysis.

Salary

65070 - 75981 NZD

Working Hours

40 hours/week

Company Size

1,001-5,000 employees

Language

English

Visa Sponsorship

No

About The Company
The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai is a great place to work for anyone who is passionate about nature and the environment. As the government agency charged with conserving Aotearoa New Zealand’s natural and historic heritage, we are responsible for caring for the land, water and our native species. We have team members spread throughout the country who work hard to ensure that Papatūānuku can thrive. They perform a huge range of tasks, from specialists undertaking ground-breaking projects through to support staff who enable our mahi; and rangers operating at the forefront of conservation. The work we do impacts the people of Aotearoa New Zealand and our many visitors and will have continued and far-reaching effects for generations to come. Our commitment to being an honourable Treaty Partner and collaboration with local iwi, community groups and businesses is critical to setting the foundations for future conservation success. We support flexible working, and a transparent and collaborative culture, as well as career development and training opportunities. If you are interested in joining a team of people who love what they do, find out more about a career with the Department of Conservation.
About the Role
  • Use your project administration skills to support a large-scale biodiversity programme - The Whakatipu Wilding Confer Control program based in the Queenstown area.

  • Two roles available (one permanent, one 3‑year fixed term).  

  • Both roles offer flexible working hours between 20- 40 per week. 
     

The Department of Conservation / Te Papa Atawhai is supporting the Whakatipu Wilding Conifer Control program with the focus on protecting biodiversity and the remarkable landscape of the Whakatipu for the benefit of everyone and particularly, future generations.  Queenstown is renowned worldwide for its stunning and iconic landscapes, but they are under threat from wilding trees. Wilding conifers threaten and replace native beech forests and tussock.

We work closely with the community-led, not-for-profit Whakatipu Wilding Control Group (WCG) to set clear direction for the annual plan and foster strong collaboration across district resources. Click here for more information and to check out the WCG Strategic Plan 2023–2033.

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.

He angitūtanga: About the Role

You’ll be part of a small, highly motivated team where adaptability and initiative are essential as you take on a wide range of responsibilities to support the programme’s success.

This role is unique and forms part of a small team that relies on a high degree of co-operation. The role involves some remote field work, at times on your own.

Key Responsibilities

  • Process invoices and track budgets to ensure accurate financial reporting.

  • Maintain monitoring and compliance records, fulfilling programme obligations.

  • Input and manage GIS data to support planning and reporting.

  • Assist with drafting job prescriptions and maintain project documentation, including best practice guides and mapping files.

  • Compile and process control data for reporting and analysis.

  • Attend on-site visits to assess progress and compliance with H&S.

  • Assisting the project management team with other field or office based tasks as required.

Click here for the Role Description

He kōrero mōu: What we are looking for

  • a confident project administrator with advanced knowledge of Microsoft applications.

  • strong Excel skills, including spreadsheets, reporting and data analysis

  • a diligent and proactive individual with a strong sense of initiative to anticipate and resolve arising issues.

  • superb relationship building and communication skills, with an ability to work with a range of stakeholders.

  • the ability to deliver in a timely manner and maintain a high level of accuracy while dealing with conflicting demands.

Desirable

  • Knowledge of GIS / Google Earth and mapping software.

  • Ability to create graphics and design materials for presentations.

  • In-depth knowledge and experience in health and safety systems.

  • A good knowledge of the geography of the Whakatipu region.

  • Experience in field monitoring and analysing results.

  • Physically fit, confident in solo backcountry work.

  • Experience with helicopters, chainsaws, invasive weed management or biodiversity.

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 kaimahi 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 $65,070 to $75,981 with the starting salary of the successful applicant 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.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday, 30 March

Depending on the volume of applications received, we may close this advertisement early, so please submit your application as soon as possible.

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Hamish Hutton, hhutton@doc.govt.nz, 027 266 8586

Key Skills
Project AdministrationFinancial ReportingBudget TrackingCompliance RecordsGIS Data ManagementDocumentation DraftingData CompilationHealth and Safety AssessmentMicrosoft ApplicationsExcelData AnalysisRelationship BuildingCommunicationTime ManagementAccuracyInitiative
Categories
Environmental & SustainabilityAdministrativeScience & ResearchGovernment & Public SectorManagement & Leadership
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