Ranger Project Lead Heritage (Part-time) – Department of Conservation – Auckland

Department of Conservation; Auckland; On-site; NZD 68,000 - 88,000; Part time

Job summary

A government environmental agency in Auckland seeks a part-time Ranger, Project Lead to support operational initiatives. Ideal candidates will have a background in conservation or project management and be able to work in collaboration with diverse stakeholders. Responsibilities include project coordination, leadership, and developing operational plans. The salary ranges from $68,878 to $87,265 based on skills and experience.

Qualifications

• Natural leader with a background in conservation or project management.
• Ability to work in partnership with others and build relationships.
• Current full New Zealand driver’s licence is required.

Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of operational initiatives and projects.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams and resources.
• Develop project plans, timelines, and budgets.

Skills

Recreational asset maintenance/management

Practical conservation work

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Knowledge of Tikanga Māori

Job description

• Work on meaningful projects that protect and enhance our backyard
• Salary ranges from $68,878 – $87,265 depending on skills and experience
• Permanent, part-time position available 16 hours per week

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.

Mō te tūranga | 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 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

Ngā pūkenga me ngā 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 experience in recreational asset maintenance/management (trade or relevant qualification desirable).
• A strong background in practical conservation work is highly desirable, along with experience in heritage management—ideally as an archaeologist or in a similar heritage-focused role.
• Ability tomonitorthe delivery of the assigned work plan and reporting progress of relevant issues.
• Committed and motivated to work without constant supervision.
• The ability to work in true partnership with others across DOC and external stakeholders including local whānau, hapū and iwi.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Tikanga Māori and Te Ao Māori.
• A strong and proactive communicator and collaborator, you build strong internal and external relationships with ease
• You’re delivery-focused, highly organised, and continuously seek opportunities to improve efficiency
• Must have a current full New Zealand driver’s licence

He aha ngā pāinga mōu? | 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 inaiānei | 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.

“Interviews are expected to take place mid-December, with an anticipated start date in February 2026.”

Rā whakakapi | Applications close

at 11:59 pm on Thursday 4th December 2025.

Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries

please contact Leona White, Principal Ranger at [e-mail]