Senior Conservation Ranger – Kūmānu – Nelson

Kūmānu; Nelson; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An environmental conservation organization is seeking a passionate Senior Ranger to lead a dedicated team in pest plant control and revegetation projects. The role is field-based and physically demanding, with a focus on delivering ecological outcomes in the Nelson region. Suitable candidates will have practical conservation experience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to teamwork. The organization offers ongoing training, a supportive culture, and a variety of benefits, providing a chance for meaningful work that enhances the local environment.

Benefits

Employee discounts

Use of a work vehicle

Ongoing training and development

Qualifications

• Ability to operate herbicides with full PPE and training provided.
• Confident in identifying pest plants and native species.
• Good level of fitness and comfort on steep terrain.

Responsibilities

• Lead a small team for ecological restoration projects.
• Conduct pest plant control and planting.
• Safely apply herbicides per environmental guidelines.

Skills

Practical field experience in conservation

Ability to use herbicides

Identification of pest plants

Experience with chainsaws

High fitness level

Strong communication skills

Education

Current Growsafe and First Aid certificates

Tools

Chainsaws

Scrub bars

Knapsack sprayers

Job description

We have a fantastic opportunity for a motivated and positive leader who is passionate about conservation and ready to support a dedicated team of Conservation Rangers in the field. We’re looking for someone hardworking and enthusiastic to help deliver pest plant control and revegetation projects that protect and restore our local environment.

This field-based role is physically demanding and requires resilience, practical skills, and a genuine love of working outdoors.

As a Senior Ranger, you’ll play a key role in leading a small team (alongside your Team Leader) and contributing to meaningful, on-the-ground outcomes. You’ll be part of a team-making a visible, lasting impact across the Nelson/Tasman region.

If you’re looking for the chance to work out in nature on a large-scale restoration project, this could be the perfect next step in your conservation career.

What you’ll be doing

• Leading a small team to deliver high-quality ecological and restoration outcomes
• Pest plant control, planting and aftercare on retired forestry, and land restoration projects
• Operating equipment such as scrub bars, chainsaws and knapsack sprayers
• Safely applying herbicides in line with best-practice environmental and safety guidelines.

Suitable applicants will have

• Proven practical field experience in conservation, agriculture or forestry
• Ability to use a range of herbicides and be comfortable doing this (full PPE and training provided)
• Motivated and passionate about the outdoors
• Confident in the identification of pest plants and native species
• Experience with chainsaws, scrub bars and herbicide application
• A current full driver’s license and ability to drive a manual
• A good level of fitness and comfort on steep terrain
• High awareness and strong commitment to health and safety
• Current Growsafe and First Aid certificates
• A positive attitude to completing tough, hands‑on work
• A practical mindset, strong communication skills, and commitment to teamwork.

What we offer

• A strong, supportive team culture where your contribution is genuinely valued
• Real job satisfaction through work that enhances the local community and makes a meaningful difference to the environment
• Ongoing training and development to help you succeed and grow in your role
• A strong health and safety focus, supported by a dedicated H&S team
• All PPE and equipment provided to ensure you can work safely and effectively
• Employee discounts and a range of additional benefits
• Use of a work vehicle for commuting.

Please note that applicants must have a current full drivers’ license, NZ residency/citizenship or a valid NZ work visa and will be required to undergo pre‑employment medical and drug screening, as well as ACC and MOJ checks.

If you have any questions regarding these roles, please contact the hiring managing at [e-mail] and they will be in touch.

Applications close Thursday, 8th January 2026.