Lead Ranger – Arboretum, Grounds & Livestock

Hamilton City Council; Waikato; On-site; NZD 36,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working policy

Professional development

Wellbeing days

Free health insurance

Annual health checks

Additional annual leave

Eye test reimbursements

Local discounts

Job summary

The Hamilton City Council seeks a Taitua Lead Ranger to oversee maintenance across the arboretum, plan priorities, and manage seasonal workloads. You will coordinate planting programs, supervise grounds and animal husbandry duties, and lead a small team to deliver safety and workmanship to high standards.

Key requirements include an Arborist qualification (Level 4) or equivalent, a NZ Driver's Licence, and experience in arboriculture and facilities maintenance.

Qualifications

• Arborist qualification Level 4 Arboriculture or equivalent, or demonstrated experience in tree maintenance and arboriculture.
• Experience in arboriculture, horticulture, grounds maintenance, and engaging service providers/contractors.
• Experience in animal husbandry and facilities maintenance.
• Full valid NZ Driver's Licence.
• Competency operating machinery including tractors, mowers, RTVs, and chainsaws.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee and support team members, with seasonal workload planning.
• Positive and collaborative attitude and working style.
• Good physical fitness.

Responsibilities

• Plan and program maintenance work across the arboretum; determine daily priorities and manage seasonal workload fluctuations.
• Coordinate the annual planting programme; manage plant requests, site prep, and establish new plantings to spec.
• Undertake routine grounds maintenance including mowing, gardening, weed control, and rubbish bin management.
• Conduct basic tree maintenance tasks, including pruning and routine care per best practice standards.
• Manage animal husbandry responsibilities, cattle welfare, movement, facilities, and feeding protocols.
• Carry out repairs to trough systems and fencing for cattle safety and function.
• Operate and maintain machinery including tractors, mowers, RTVs, and chainsaws safely.
• Maintain plant, equipment, and resources in a clean, tidy, and operational condition.
• Lead and develop team members with clear direction, mentoring, and performance feedback.
• Engage with service providers and contractors to support grounds maintenance and facilities management.
• Maintain health and safety standards across all maintenance operations.

Skills

Team leadership

Health and safety

Physical fitness

Tree maintenance

Planning & prioritization

Contractor coordination

Education

Arborist qualification Level 4 Arboriculture or equivalent

Tools

Tractors

Mowers

RTVs

Chainsaws

Job description

The Hamilton City Council seeks a Taitua Lead Ranger to oversee maintenance across the arboretum, plan priorities, and manage seasonal workloads. You will coordinate planting programs, supervise grounds and animal husbandry duties, and lead a small team to deliver safety and workmanship to high standards.

Key requirements include an Arborist qualification (Level 4) or equivalent, a NZ Driver's Licence, and experience in arboriculture and facilities maintenance.