Ranger Biodiversity Monitoring (Permanent) (D-Band)
Rotorua - New Zealand
Job Summary
Lead field delivery mentor others and contribute to national monitoring programmes
Permanent full-time roles based in Rotorua or Hokitika
Multiple Biodiversity Monitoring positions available from September 2026 - check out our Careers Site to see all listings
The salary range for this positionis $69429to$88181
Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa TeOrangaoteAoTūroa
Mōtetūranga About the role
Based permanently in either Rotorua or Hokitika this is your opportunity to step into a technical leadership role inthe MonitoringOperations Team working in some of Aotearoas most remote and remarkable places.
As aBiodiversity MonitoringRangeryou will play a key role in delivering DOCsnationalmonitoringpriorities combiningstrongfield capability with leadership planning and technicalexpertise.
You will:
Lead and deliver monitoring programmes across diverse ecosystems
Provide technical advice and coaching to staff contractors andstakeholders
Take responsibility for field planninglogistics and day-to-day work programme delivery
Ensure high-quality data collection management and reporting
Leadfield teams and support capability development
This role balances hands-on fieldwork with leadership and coordination responsibilities ideal for someone ready to take the next step beyond a field-based ranger role!Nextstepintofieldplanningandproject leading
The role follows a seasonal field-based schedule typically working 1214 days on followed by 56 days off including extended backcountry deployments in small teams. During the off-field period the focus shifts to planning reporting and supporting programme delivery.
Think:leading field teams solving real-world conservation challenges and delivering work that directly protects ourtaiao.
Ngāpūkengamengāwheako Skills and experience
Yourean experienced and capable field practitioner who thrives outdoors works well in a team and is motivated by delivering meaningful conservation outcomes. You bring both hands-on technicalexpertiseand the ability to lead support and deliver high-quality monitoring work in remote environments.
Werekeen to hear from you if you bring:
Strong communicationand teamwork skills with the ability to work effectively in small remote teams
Proven experience in biodiversity monitoring or pest control including applying methods such as vegetation plots Recce 5MBC FPI or species monitoring
Advanced plant and/or bird identification skills with a high standard of data collection and accuracy
Experience leading or supervising field teams and the ability to coach and support others
Confidence managing work programmeslogistics and day-to-day field operations
Strong problem-solving decision-making and organisational skills
Backcountry experience including off-track travel and carrying heavy packs
High levelof physical fitness and the ability to spend extended periods (up totwoweeks) away fromhomeregularly
Capability in data management analysis and reporting with GIS experience (e.g. ArcGIS) an advantage
Proficiencyin Microsoft Office for data capture and reporting
Youllalso have:
A relevant qualification in natural heritage conservation or equivalent practical experience
A full New Zealand driver licence
Experience workingandengaging with whānau hapū and iwi with an understanding ofTeAo Māori andTeTiritio Waitangi
Desirable:
First Aid and 4WD qualifications
Mōtetīma About the team
The Monitoring Operations Team is a nationally distributed group with staff based across Aotearoa. Teams oftenoperateacross wide geographic areas and travel extensively to deliver fieldwork contributing to nationally consistentmonitoring programmesgeographical areasWork in small teams (typically 28 people)
Spend time in remote and unique environments
Be part of a supportive passionate and purpose-driven team
Balance fieldwork with planning and preparation in the off-season
This is a team that works hard supports each other and is proud of the impact they make.
Check out some of the awesome mahi the field operations teams atTePapa Atawhai contribute to:
DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone canparticipate thrive and grow.Wereworking towards being an organisation that is diverseequitableand inclusive by default. You can learn more about what we offerhere.
Tonoainaiānei Apply now
Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skillsexperienceand motivation for joiningTePapa Atawhai.
As part of your application you willbe requiredto complete a short questionnaire in the careers centre. Please allowadditionaltime to complete this step.
If yourequireany accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process please let us know.
The salary range for this position is $69429 to$88181with the starting salary of the successful applicantbeing basedon 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.
Next Steps in the Recruitment Process
Candidates who are shortlisted will progress to the next stage of the recruitment process which involves completing aVieplevideosubmission.
Please ensure you are available to complete andsubmityour video interview within the requiredtimeframe:
Invitation will be sent from: 4 June 2026
Completiontimeframe: Applicants will have one week to complete the video submission from invitation date
Further instructions will be provided to shortlisted candidates.
Rāwhakakapi Applications closeat 11:59 pm on Wednesday 27 May 2026.
Me hepātaianōwhakapāmai For further enquiriespleasecontact Loren Butler Supervisor Biodiversity Monitoring