Ranger Biodiversity

New Zealand Government; Tūrangi; On-site; NZD 66,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

The New Zealand Government seeks a Biodiversity Ranger based in Turangi to contribute to biodiversity work across the Central Plateau. You will undertake fieldwork and office-based tasks, helping with threatened species management, pest control, and habitat restoration.

Applicants should be adaptable, collaborative, and committed to protecting New Zealand's native flora and fauna, with a willingness to stay in remote locations and drive within the region.

Qualifications

• Ability to plan, coordinate, and deliver biodiversity and conservation work.
• Experience with native species, habitats, and ecosystems in central North Island.
• Experience partnering with community groups, iwi, hapu for biodiversity outcomes.
• Strong communication to build relationships and manage challenging situations.
• Proficiency in MS Office, data management, and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Deliver biodiversity work across the Central Plateau.
• Contribute to Threatened Species Management and Threat Management.
• Build relationships with contractors, volunteers, whanau, hapu, iwi, and community groups.
• Support district operations and regional work programmes as required.
• Assist in planning, reporting, and administrative tasks.

Skills

Planning & delivery

Stakeholder engagement

Conservation knowledge

Data management

MS Office

Driver Licence

Fieldwork

Pest control

GIS/GPS

Tools

GIS

GPS

MS Office

Job description

Make a real difference for biodiversity across the iconic Turangi and Taupo landscapeContribute directly to protecting threatened species and restoring natural habitatsSalary range: $65,590 to $76,889 depending on skills and experiencePermanent, full-time position based in TurangiOur vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao TuroaMo te turanga | About the roleAs a Biodiversity Ranger, you will contribute to a range of biodiversity work across the Central Plateau through a mix of fieldwork and office-based activities. This varied role combines hands-on conservation with planning, reporting, and administrative responsibilities, making it ideal for someone who enjoys diversity in their day-to-day work.The position will be focussed on:Delivering a wide range of biodiversity work across the Central PlateauThreatened Species Management - Protecting and nurturing our unique flora and faunaThreat Management - Tackling animal pests, controlling weedsBuilding strong working relationships with contractors, volunteers, whanau, hapu, iwi, community groups, and other stakeholdersParticipating in wider district operations and supporting regional work programmes and projects as requiredClick here for the Role DescriptionNga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and experienceWe are looking for a dedicated team player who is adaptable, resilient, and passionate about protecting and enhancing the unique biodiversity across the central plateau.If you have some of following, we are keen to hear from you:Ability to plan, coordinate, and deliver biodiversity and conservation work for yourself and othersKnowledge of, or strong interest in, protecting native species, habitats, and ecosystems in the central North IslandExperience working in partnership with community conservation groups, volunteers, iwi, whanau, and hapu to achieve shared biodiversity outcomesStrong communication skills with the ability to build positive relationships and effectively manage challenging situationsPassion for conservation and a commitment to safeguarding New Zealand's unique flora and faunaTechnology savvy; proficiency in MS Office suite, data management and reportingAbility to adapt to changing operational prioritiesWillingness to stay overnight, work in remote locationsExperience in field-based conservation work, including pest control, monitoring, ecological restoration, or species managementFlexible, patient, and able to work effectively as part of a teamFull New Zealand Driver LicencePhysically FitDesirable:Experience identifying and handling native flora and faunaKnowledge of biodiversity monitoring, ecological surveying, and data collection methodologies4WD and LUV driving experienceGrowsafe CertificateControlled Substances LicenceGIS, GPS, and navigation experienceKnowledge of pest plant and pest animal management techniquesEven if you don't tick all the boxes but believe your skills and experience closely align, then we still encourage you to submit an application.He aha nga painga mou? | What's in it for you?DOC places importance on developing a culture where everyone can participate, thrive, and grow. We're working towards being an organisation that is diverse, equitable and inclusive by default. You can learn more about what we offer here.Tonoa inaianei | Apply nowApply online with your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation. We're unable to accept emailed applications or provide feedback to applicants not shortlisted.If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we'll try to accommodate.Salary: $65,590-$76,589 depending on skills and experience.Eligibility: You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment.Ra whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday 4 November 2026Me he patai ano, whakapa mai | For further enquiries, please contact Ian McNickle, Principal Ranger Biodiversity, Heritage and Visitor, [e-mail].