Ranger (Fixed Term)

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

Job summary

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is seeking a proactive Ranger to support maintenance of heritage and visitor assets in the Reefton area.

You will work outdoors across tracks, campgrounds, huts and bridges, undertaking basic construction tasks and supporting biodiversity and local teams. This fixed-term full-time role runs from November to May 2027, offering a strong team culture and opportunities for hands-on conservation experience.

Qualifications

• Positive attitude and good communication skills.
• Enjoys working outdoors in a hands-on environment.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Holds a valid NZ Class 1 Driver Licence.
• Physically fit and active.

Responsibilities

• Maintain front-country tracks and backcountry tracks.
• Maintain visitor sites such as campgrounds and recreational areas.
• Maintain huts, bridges, and other structures.
• Assist with basic construction and building work.
• Support biodiversity, community, and wider teams when required.

Skills

Positive attitude & communication

Outdoor hands-on work

Independent & team work

NZ Class 1 Driver Licence

Physically fit

Job description

• Are you someone who is passionate about maintaining Heritage and Visitor assets and providing quality visitor experiences? If yes, then this is the job for you!
• Salary range: $61,189 - $67,446
• Full time, fixed termroles from November to end of May 2027 based in our Reefton base office

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

Mō te tūranga | About the role

As a Ranger you will support the delivery of essential maintenance work across a range of visitor and heritage assets. Working as part of a supportive team, you’ll gain practical experience across a variety of tasks.

In this role, you will:

• Maintain front-country tracks and backcountry tracks
• Maintain visitor sites such as campgrounds and recreational areas
• Maintain huts, bridges, and other structures
• Assist with basic construction and building work
• Support biodiversity, community, and wider teams when required

You’ll be working outdoors in a practical, physically active role, contributing to conservation outcomes as part of a positive and enthusiastic team across the Reefton area.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience

If you have the following attributes, we are keen to hear from you:

• Has a positive, can-do attitude and good communication skills
• Enjoys working outdoors in a hands-on environment
• Can work both independently and as part of a team
• Holds a full or restricted Class 1 Driver Licence
• Has a good level of physical fitness

Mō te tīma | About the team

The Mawhera/Greymouth Heritage and Visitor Team consist of 10 full time staff, 3 of those being based in the Reefton field Centre, plus up to 3 fixed term staff during the summer season. The Paparoa H&V Team consists of 3 full time staff, 3 Hut wardens and 2 track workers seasonally. The 2 teams work together on a variety of different work tasks.

We have a great positive work culture and often work across teams when there is priority work on. You will be joining a supportive team, who value their staff and invest in personal development and growth

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | What’s 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 need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate.

Salary:

$61,189 - $67,446 depending on skills and experience.

Eligibility:

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

Rā whakakapi | Applications close

at 11:59 pm on Tuesday 08 September 2026

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries

please contact Sam Symonds on 027 543 0145 or [e-mail]