Ranger Biodiversity

• Play a key role in protecting coastal and island ecosystems through hands-on marine conservation work
• Put your proven skippering skills and weed control experience to work
• Salary range: $65,070 to $75,981 depending on skills and experience
• Permanent, full-time position | based in Whitianga

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
Are you an experienced skipper with a passion for conservation and hands-on biodiversity work? We're looking for a capable and motivated Ranger Biodiversity to join our team, supporting critical marine and island-based conservation initiatives.

This is a varied, field-based role that combines vessel operations, biosecurity management, and coastal restoration. You'll be working in dynamic environments where your skills will directly contribute to protecting Aotearoa New Zealand's unique ecosystems.

The position will be focussed on:

• Operating vessels safely and in full compliance across coastal and offshore environments
• Delivering and managing on-island biosecurity programmes
• Supporting biodiversity initiatives in marine areas outside HPAs and marine reserves
• Leading coastal restoration work, including Spartina control and dune restoration
• Maintaining high standards of health and safety, documentation, and audit readiness
• Assisting with marine mammal response activities
• Collaborating with the wider biodiversity team on conservation

Flexibility is essential, with applicants expected to be available for weekend work and occasional periods away from home.

Click here for the Role Description

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
Are you someone who thrives in remote and often challenging environments, is confident working independently, and takes pride in maintaining the highest standards of safe and compliant vessel operations? Do you bring a genuine passion for conservation, and weed control with a strong commitment to achieving meaningful biodiversity outcomes and protecting Aotearoa New Zealand's unique marine and coastal ecosystems?

If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you:

• Tertiary Qualification in environmental science/conservation or related field.
• Experience in conservation, ecology, or environmental management
• Weed control and vegetation management experience
• Skipper Licence: Must hold an SRL endorsed to operate vessels up to 12m.
• Demonstrated commercial experience skippering vessels (12m+) in open ocean conditions
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and carry out minor engine repairs
• Experience managing or supporting biosecurity or conservation projects
• Ability to work independently and lead field-based projects
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with teammates, contractors, iwi, and community groups. With understanding of Māori Tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• A focus on health, safety, and wellbeing in field-based operations with proven experience in vessel safety, compliance, and audit preparation.
• Full New Zealand driver's licence
  

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.

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 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.

Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11.59pm Sunday 12th April 2026.
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 Ben Gordon, Principal Ranger Biodiversity at [email protected]