Frontline Conservation Ranger – Abel Tasman Park

Department of Conservation (DOC); Motueka; On-site; NZD 61,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary range shown: NZD 61,189–67,446

Job summary

The Department of Conservation (DOC) invites applications for a Ranger role at Motueka, delivering frontline conservation work across Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks. The role is hands-on, involving track and facility maintenance, biodiversity protection, and community engagement.

Reporting to the Principal Ranger, you’ll work in a close-knit team, support visitor facilities, and collaborate with iwi and volunteers.

Qualifications

• Experience in conservation field work, including track maintenance.
• Strong backcountry skills and a high level of physical fitness.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with iwi, community groups, volunteers, and conservation partners.
• Good planning, organisation, and problem-solving abilities.
• Commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing.
• Confidence using GPS, mobile devices, and digital systems.
• A full New Zealand driver’s licence and willingness to work away from home and participate in after-hours/weekend responses as required.
• Practical experience using machinery such as chainsaws, scrub bars, 4WD, tractors etc.
• Experience operating vessels; Boatmaster qualification is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Maintaining tracks, huts, bridges, toilets, signage and other visitor facilities to keep them safe and accessible.
• Track clearing and maintenance across front and backcountry.
• Carrying out sewerage system maintenance and related tasks.
• Building and maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders, visitors and colleagues.
• Participating in team safety activities and taking responsibility for your own safety and that of your teammates.

Skills

Backcountry skills

Physical fitness

Independent & teamwork

Communication

Planning & organisation

Health & safety

GPS & digital systems

Driver's licence

Tools

Chainsaws

Scrub bars

4WD

Tractors

Boatmaster (advantage)

Job description

The Department of Conservation (DOC) invites applications for a Ranger role at Motueka, delivering frontline conservation work across Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks. The role is hands-on, involving track and facility maintenance, biodiversity protection, and community engagement.

Reporting to the Principal Ranger, you’ll work in a close-knit team, support visitor facilities, and collaborate with iwi and volunteers.