Ranger Biodiversity

Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai; Tūrangi; On-site; NZD 66,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Conservation in New Zealand seeks a Biodiversity Ranger to work across the Central Plateau, combining fieldwork with planning, reporting, and admin tasks. You will contribute to protecting threatened species and restoring habitats, while engaging with communities, iwi, and volunteers.

This permanent, full-time role is based in Tūrangi, with some overnight stays and remote work as needed. A valid NZ driver licence and physical fitness are essential.

Qualifications

• Ability to plan, coordinate, and deliver biodiversity work.
• Experience working with community groups, iwi, hapū to achieve biodiversity outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Deliver biodiversity work across the Central Plateau.
• Manage Threatened Species and pest/weed control.
• Build relationships with contractors, volunteers and stakeholders.
• Support district operations and regional work programmes.

Skills

Planning

Coordination

Communication

Teamwork

Data management

MS Office

Tools

GPS navigation

Job description

Make a real difference for biodiversity across the iconic Tūrangi and Taupō landscape. Contribute directly to protecting threatened species and restoring natural habitats. Salary range: $65,590 to $76,889 depending on skills and experience Permanent, full-time position based in Tūrangi

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa Mō te tūranga

About the role

As 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.

Responsibilities

• Delivering a wide range of biodiversity work across the Central Plateau
• Threatened Species Management – Protecting and nurturing our unique flora and fauna
• Threat Management – Tackling animal pests, controlling weeds
• Building strong working relationships with contractors, volunteers, whānau, hapū, iwi, community groups, and other stakeholders
• Participating in wider district operations and supporting regional work programmes and projects as required

Skills and experience

• Ability to plan, coordinate, and deliver biodiversity and conservation work for yourself and others
• Knowledge of, or strong interest in, protecting native species, habitats, and ecosystems in the central North Island
• Experience working in partnership with community conservation groups, volunteers, iwi, whānau, and hapū to achieve shared biodiversity outcomes
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build positive relationships and effectively manage challenging situations
• Passion for conservation and a commitment to safeguarding New Zealand's unique flora and fauna
• Technology savvy; proficiency in MS Office suite, data management and reporting
• Ability to adapt to changing operational priorities
• Willingness to stay overnight, work in remote locations
• Experience in field-based conservation work, including pest control, monitoring, ecological restoration, or species management
• Flexible, patient, and able to work effectively as part of a team
• Full New Zealand Driver Licence
• Physically Fit

Desirable

• Experience identifying and handling native flora and fauna
• Knowledge of biodiversity monitoring, ecological surveying, and data collection methodologies
• 4WD and LUV driving experience
• Growsafe Certificate
• Controlled Substances Licence
• GIS, GPS, and navigation experience
• Knowledge of pest plant and pest animal management techniques

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.

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.

Applications close at 11:59 pm on Wednesday 4 November 2026.

For further enquiries, please contact Ian McNickle, Principal Ranger Biodiversity, Heritage and Visitor, [e-mail].

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa

The Department of Conservation, Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive. Ko tā Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora anō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata. Our people bring this vision to life. Spread across Aotearoa, they care for our land, water, and native species. From frontline rangers and technical experts to vital support teams - we have a diverse range of roles.