Ranger Project Lead

Department of Conservation (DOC); Motueka; On-site; NZD 68,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

A governmental conservation agency is seeking a Ranger Project Lead to support operational initiatives in the stunning Abel Tasman National Park. This permanent role involves delivering projects that protect the environment and fostering teamwork among diverse groups. Ideal candidates will have a background in conservation, project management, and strong communication skills. The role promises a competitive salary range of $68,878 - $87,265, with a focus on personal growth and contribution to conservation efforts.

Benefits

Opportunity for professional development

Role in a meaningful environmental project

Qualifications

• Proven background in practical conservation work, particularly track and hut maintenance.
• Experience in infrastructure projects, preferably in water management.
• Experience in project support, planning, and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of operational initiatives and capital works projects.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams and resources to achieve project outcomes.
• Develop project plans, timelines, budgets, and risk assessments.

Skills

Practical conservation work

Project management

Strong communication

Ability to work with communities

Organizational skills

Current full driving licence

Job description

• Work on meaningful projects that protect and enhance our backyard
• Permanent role | Salary range - $68,878 - $87,265
• Mārahau based role: Gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park

Drive the delivery of operational initiatives that support conservation outcomes within the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park

Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao T'Uroa

The Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai (DOC) serves to protect and restore nature across Aotearoa. When nature thrives, we all thrive.

Ko t'A Te Papa Atawhai he tiaki, he whakarauora an'ō hoki i te taiao puta noa i Aotearoa. He oranga taiao, he oranga tangata.

M'ō te t'uranga | About the role

Reporting to the Principal Ranger, the Ranger, Project Lead will provide support in delivering operational initiatives, for the District or Region. The position will be focussed on:

• Support the delivery of operational initiatives and capital works projects
• Coordinate cross-functional teams and resources to achieve project outcomes
• Provide leadership in the field and run the day-to-day operations, setting a positive team environment
• Develop project plans, timelines, budgets, and risk assessments
• Monitor progress and report on milestones and performance
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders

Click here for the Role Description

Ng'a 'p'ukenga me 'ng'a wheako | Skills and experience

You're a natural leader with a background in conservation, environmental operations, or project management. You thrive in dynamic environments and bring clarity, structure, and collaboration to everything you do.

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

• Proven background in practical conservation work (track and hut maintenance)
• Knowledge of infrastructure projects (ideally grey water/ black water and drinking water)
• Qualified skipper with Boat Master or SRL credentials
• Experience supporting projects or programs, including planning, implementation, supervision, delivery within timeframes, and reporting
• A strong and proactive communicator and collaborator, you build strong internal and external relationships with ease
• ability to work alongside wh'anau, hap'u, iwi collaboratively and effectively, as well as the community, businesses, and others
• You're delivery-focused, highly organised, and continuously seek opportunities to improve efficiency
• Current full driving licence

Our Values

At The Department of Conservation, everyone's journey is unique. Every purpose, personal. That's why we believe your career should be more than a role… it should be a path that reflects who you are, what you value, and the difference you want to make.

Here, you’ll find more than a workplace. You’ll find a team united and guided by values that matter:

• Integrity, because trust and honesty are non-negotiable
• Empowerment, because when we lift each other, we all rise higher
• Connection, because collaboration sparks progress
• Achievement, because results mean more when they create real impact

This is a place where nature thrives because people do.

He aha 'ng'a pāinga m'o'u? | 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 inai'a'nei | Apply now

Apply online with a CV and cover letter that highlights your relevant skills, experience and motivation for joining Te Papa Atawhai. Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept direct or emailed applications and provide feedback to those not shortlisted.

If you require any accommodations or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

The salary range for this position is $68,878 - $87,265 with the starting salary of the successful applicant being based on their relevant skills and experience.

Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory – this includes holding a valid work visa that covers the whole period of employment.

Due to high volumes, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role.

R'ā whakakapi | Applications close

Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday 11th January 2026.

Me he p'ātai an'ō, whakap'a mai | For further enquiries

Please contact Phillip Brooks, Principal Ranger Heritage and Visitor, [e-mail]