Field Operator - Wellington Conservation Team

Trap and Trigger Limited; Upper Hutt; On-site; NZD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Trap and Trigger Limited is seeking a motivated Field Operator to join the Wellington Conservation Team and work on conservation projects across Aotearoa. You will help control invasive predators and pest plants to protect native species and ecosystems.

The role is outdoors in rugged country with changeable weather. It suits someone fit, who enjoys travel and backcountry work, and who cares about New Zealand’s environment. Training and safety are emphasized.

Qualifications

• Fitness to perform physically demanding fieldwork in all conditions.
• Willingness to travel and spend extended periods in remote locations.
• Ability to handle toxins with training provided in-house.
• Problem-solving mindset with ability to work independently.
• Basic knowledge of NZ native flora and fauna and invasive species preferred.
• Clear communication and a team-first attitude.

Responsibilities

• Predator control: set, check and maintain traps and bait stations.
• Pest plant control: identify weeds and control using agrichemical and/or mechanical methods.
• Native planting: prepare sites and plant native species; assist with release spraying and maintenance.
• Rabbit control: burrow fumigation and night shooting operations (if licensed).
• Track cutting: establish or maintain biosecurity lines or walking tracks.
• Safely operate and maintain field equipment (chainsaws, scrub cutters).
• Collect accurate data on pest populations and control effectiveness.
• Use apps and systems for reporting, data collection, navigation, recording, and communication.
• Navigate and work safely in remote, challenging terrain and adverse weather.
• Collaborate with team, clients and stakeholders to deliver project outcomes.
• Follow health and safety procedures and contribute to safety culture.
• Participate in training to build skills and qualifications.

Skills

High fitness level

Willingness to travel

Independent worker

Clear communication

Team player

Safety minded

Education

NZ Certificate in Pest Operations (Level 3)

Tools

Chainsaw operation

Spray equipment handling

Backcountry navigation

First Aid Certificate

Job description

Field Operator - Wellington Conservation Team

Trap and Trigger is looking for a motivated Field Operator to join our Wellington Conservation Team. You’ll work on conservation projects across Aotearoa, controlling invasive predators and pest plants so native species and ecosystems can recover.

The work takes place outdoors, often in rugged country and changeable weather. It suits someone who is fit, enjoys travel and time in the backcountry, and cares about protecting New Zealand’s natural environment.

What you’ll do:

Predator Control: set, check and maintain traps and bait stations

Pest Plant Control: identify weeds and control them with agrichemical and/or mechanical methods

Native Planting: Prepare sites and plant native species as part of restoration projects, release spraying and maintenance so new plantings get established

Rabbit Control: Burrow fumigation and night shooting operations (if you have firearms license)

Track Cutting: Establishment or maintenance of biosecurity lines or public walking tracks using machinery

Safely operate and maintain field equipment, including chainsaws and scrub cutters

Collect accurate data on pest populations and how well control is working

Use a variety of phone apps and systems for reporting, data collection, navigation, recording, and communication

Navigate and work safely in remote, challenging terrain and adverse weather

Work closely with your team, clients and other stakeholders to deliver project outcomes

Follow all health and safety procedures and help build a strong safety culture

Take part in training to build your skills and qualifications

What you’ll bring:

A high level of fitness and the ability to do physically demanding work in all conditions

Willingness to travel and to spend extended periods working in remote and backcountry locations

Willingness to handle toxins and agrichemicals with training provided

A practical, problem-solving mindset and the ability to work independently

Basic knowledge of New Zealand’s native flora and fauna and of key invasive species

Clear communication and a team-first attitude

A full New Zealand driver’s licence

A commitment to conservation and environmental protection

Nice to have:

Experience in predator and/or pest plant control

GrowSafe certification

NZ Certificate in Pest Operations (Level 3)

Chainsaws Certificates

Off-roading certificates (4WD, LUV, Two Wheeler)

First Aid Certificate

Controlled Substance License

Registered Chemical Applicator

About us

Trap and Trigger delivers conservation services across New Zealand, including ungulate/wallaby control, predator control, pest plant control and ecological restoration. Our Wellington Conservation Team (WCT) delivers a wide variety of pest control and conservation services, working on projects for local and central government, landowners, iwi, non-profit organisations and private clients. Projects may include:

Predator Control & Monitoring

Restoration Planting

Wilding Pines

Drone Surveys

Track Cutting

What we offer:

Meaningful work that makes a real difference for New Zealand's native species and ecosystems

Paid training and industry certifications to grow your skills and career

Varied work across predator control, pest plants and restoration, in some of New Zealand's beautiful remote locations

Work phone

Living wage-supporting company

Working away from home allowance - groceries and accommodation provided when working away from home

PPE and equipment provided

Temporary accommodation options available for those who would need to relocate for the role

Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand. A full job description is available on request.