Ranger/Project Lead Biodiversity

Exciting opportunity to plan and lead infrastructure-based projects which contribute to the conservation of kākāpō & takahē. Make some of Aotearoa New Zealand's most beautiful locations your workplace. The salary range for this position is $68,535 to $86,423. Permanent, full-time role based in Invercargill or Te Anau. 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 spaces and species across Aotearoa. Tangata whenua are inextricably linked to the whenua and te taiao, and we desire a future where whānau, hapū and iwi can thrive in their role as rangatira and kaitiaki. Tō tātou taiāo. Tō tātou hītori. He tāonga tūturu nō Aotearoa. Maioha rawatia. Poipoia rawatia. Tukua. Our nature. Our history. It's New Zealand's unique legacy. Enjoy it. Enrich it. Pass it on.

About the Role

Both the Kākāpō and Takahē Recovery Programme's are growing with breeding success & new technology allowing expansion into new wild sites. We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced and highly motivated person to support the scoping, procurement & delivery of infrastructure projects which support the recovery goals of both species. The candidate will work with a highly dedicated team across multiple locations in mostly Fiordland and Southland. The focus of the Infrastructure Project Lead's role is to understand the infrastructure needs of the recovery programmes and to deliver these projects within the budgetary & logistical constraints of some of Aotearoa New Zealand's most remote locations. You will work with the Kakapo Expansion Project Site Lead as well as supervisors & senior rangers across both programmes to scope and deliver new or upgraded infrastructure projects. The role will also provide a lead in managing building and hazardous goods compliance. This role can be based in either Invercargill or Te Anau but will require the successful candidate to regularly travel to remote kākāpō & takahē sites to deliver work. The candidate may also have the occasional opportunity to work alongside rangers doing biodiversity work in the field.

Skills and Experience

The successful applicant will have experience in project management and a good understanding of procurement processes. If you have the following attributes, we are keen to hear from you:

• Demonstrated experience in planning and delivery of projects, preferably infrastructure related.
• Excellent communication skills and an ability to develop and lead external stakeholder relationships.
• Good financial management and proven ability to work within a budget.
• Proven ability to write reports and meet deadlines.
• Experience & confidence working with mana whenua.
• Team focused, with the ability to work well with others and contribute positively to team culture.
• Desirable: Good working knowledge of sustainable building practices and products.
• Proven backcountry experience & interest in the conservation of Aotearoa New Zealand's threatened species.

About the Team

You will be part of the Regional Operations Team Kākāpō / Takahē and will work with other members of the team based in Invercargill, Te Anau and kākāpō takahē sites nationwide. The team includes technical, scientific, infrastructure, logistics, and field-based roles. You will report to the Supervisor Takahē Recovery but will work closely with the Kakapo Expansion Project Lead.

Further Information

Kākāpō Recovery can be found here & Takahē Recovery here.

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.

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 throughout the recruitment process, please do let us know. 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.

Applications Close

Applications close at 11:59 pm on Monday, 16 September 2024. For further enquiries, contact Nichy Brown at nibrown@doc.govt.nz or 027 290 2783. Job reference: 400 / 09658#J-18808-Ljbffr