Marine Protection Ranger (Fixed Term)

New Zealand Government Joba; Auckland; On-site; NZD 69,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

New Zealand Government Joba seeks a Marine Protection Ranger to lead compliance and advocacy work within the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. A current scientific diving qualification and skippering experience are highly valued, with travel across sites and a seven-day roster.

The role centers on research, enforcement, and collaboration with communities to safeguard marine ecosystems. The position offers full-time, fixed-term employment through to April 2027, based in Devonport, Auckland CBD, or

Qualifications

• Current scientific diving qualification
• Experience conducting ecological surveys and biodiversity monitoring
• Experience in compliance or advocacy related to marine protection

Responsibilities

• Conduct scientific surveys, assist ecological assessments, and support biodiversity monitoring (e.g., BRUV, BUV, transects, deep reef surveys)
• Ensure compliance with marine protection laws via patrols, inspections, and engagement
• Collaborate with treaty partners, local communities, and marine users to promote sustainable practices
• Respond to environmental incidents, support emergency operations, and assist in compliance investigations
• Maintain accurate records and prepare high-quality reports; issue infringements or documentation for prosecution

Skills

Scientific diving

Maritime compliance

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Driver license

Education

Tertiary qualification in marine/environmental science

Job description

Are you passionate about marine conservation and protecting our coastal ecosystems? Are you a skilled and experienced diver with a Scientific COC, and experience in skippering, marine compliance or advocacy? Join us in protecting and revitalising the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park

Salary ranges from $69,429 - $88,181 depending on skills and experience. Full‑time, fixed‑term opportunity through to April 2027. Based in Devonport, Auckland CBD or Warkworth on a7‑day rotational roster.

About the role

As a Marine Protection Ranger, your role has a strong focus on compliance and advocacy. You will have a current scientific diving qualification and experience undertaking various scientific methods. Experience boating and skippering will be advantageous year‑round. You will be committed and excited to undertake compliance and advocacy. You will have a passion and an understanding of the marine environment.

The position will be focused on:

• Conducting scientific surveys, assist with ecological assessments, and contribute to biodiversity monitoring eg. BRUV, BUV, transects, deep reef surveys etc.
• Ensuring compliance with marine protection laws through patrols, inspections, and engagement.
• Collaborating with treaty partners, local communities, and marine users to promote sustainable practices.
• Responding to environmental incidents, support emergency operations, and assist in compliance investigations.
• Maintaining accurate records, prepare high‑quality reports, and issue infringements or documentation for prosecution.

These roles require travel, so flexibility is essential to work away from home for several days when needed. Rosters operate on a rotational basis to ensure coverage 7 days a week. This is a full‑time, fixed‑term opportunity through to April 2027 and can be based out of Devonport, Auckland CBD or Warkworth.

Skills and experience

• Effective communication: Able to effectively convey complex regulations and policies around marine reserve operations, including operating radio effectively
• Cultural awareness and ethical decision making: Sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and traditions to foster respect and cooperation.
• Adaptability: Ability to handle changing environments and weather while maintaining safety and clear communication. Willingness to work weekends and public holidays.
• Excellent paperwork skills: Ability to write complex compliance reports and effectively relay information
• Problem solving & situational awareness: Quick, safe resolution of issues and awareness of surroundings to prevent accidents and mitigate risks.
• Leadership: Decision‑making under pressure to ensure crew safety and smooth team operations.
• Scientific Diving certification and experience
• Advocacy & Compliance: Experience in compliance or advocacy roles.
• Tertiary Qualification in marine science, environmental science, or related field.
• SRL (Skipper Restricted Limits) licence preferred
• Physical Fitness: Able to meet the physical demands of diving and vessel operations.
• Medically fit to perform vessel handling duties, with current medical certifications (WorkSafe) required for maritime operations
• Navigation, GPS, and chart reading.
• Marine safety protocols, including emergency and man‑overboard procedures.
• Understanding of New Zealand maritime laws and compliance.
• Experience maintaining accurate operational logs and compliance documentation.
• Knowledge of marine ecosystems and sustainable boating practices.
• Ability to assess and manage marine hazards and risks.
• Current Full NZ Driver License.
• Ability to work away from home for several days when required.

• Desirable skills:
  • Proficiency in Mandarin or Cantonese and Te Reo is highly desirable
  • Commitment to marine sustainability and Te Papa Atawhai's Kaupapa, with understanding of Māori Tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi

What in it for you?

DOC is committed to a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We're driven by our values and behaviours, and are working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive by default.

If you’re ready to take on this exciting challenge and contribute to the revitalisation of the Hauraki Gulf, we want to hear from you!

Eligibility: You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment.

For further enquiries, please contact Kylie Yallop, Principal Ranger, [e-mail]