Rotorua-Based Biodiversity Ranger: Protect & Restore NZ Nature

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

Job summary

Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai in Rotorua seeks a Ranger Biodiversity to join our team and contribute to protecting and restoring native biodiversity across diverse landscapes.

The role involves fieldwork, ecological monitoring, restoration projects, pest control, and collaboration with iwi and local communities to deliver biodiversity outcomes in challenging environments.

Qualifications

• Experience delivering conservation, biodiversity, environmental, or resource management work programmes.
• Experience delivering predator or pest control programmes.
• Proven ability to plan, coordinate, and deliver projects and field-based operational activities.
• Knowledge of biodiversity management, ecosystem restoration, species protection, and threat management.
• Experience leading complex projects or coordinating programmes of work across multiple stakeholders.
• Understanding of relevant legislation, policies, operational procedures, and permitting requirements.
• Strong communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with iwi, communities, stakeholders, partners, and colleagues.
• Demonstrated ability to provide leadership, guidance, and support to others.
• Strong planning, organisational, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• A commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing, and a proactive approach to managing risk in operational environments.
• Confidence using digital tools and systems to support planning, reporting, and operational delivery.
• An understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a commitment to working in partnership with iwi to achieve positive conservation outcomes.
• Relevant operational qualifications and experience, including chainsaw use, scrub bar operation, four-wheel driving, and Light Utility Vehicle (LUV) operation.
• Current First Aid Certificate.
• A current full New Zealand Driver Licence.
• Vessel experience – Day Skipper or higher qualifications are an advantage

Responsibilities

• Supporting the protection and recovery of threatened species and habitats.
• Support ecosystem restoration and habitat enhancement projects.
• Undertake pest plant and predator control activities.
• Deliver biodiversity monitoring programmes and collect high-quality ecological data.
• Work with neighbouring landowners to maintain boundaries and help keep conservation land safe from stock.
• Manage hunting permits for the district and support compliance with permit conditions.
• Maintain conservation infrastructure, equipment, and monitoring sites.
• Prepare reports and maintain accurate records of field activities.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with iwi, community groups, neighbouring landowners, contractors, and conservation partners.
• Promote safe work practices and contribute to a positive team culture.

Skills

Conservation knowledge

Field experience

Relationship management

Leadership

Health and safety awareness

Driver Licence

Vessel experience

First Aid

Education

First Aid Certificate

NZ Driver Licence

Chainsaw operation

Scrub bar operation

4WD operation

LUV operation

Job description

Department of Conservation - Te Papa Atawhai in Rotorua seeks a Ranger Biodiversity to join our team and contribute to protecting and restoring native biodiversity across diverse landscapes.

The role involves fieldwork, ecological monitoring, restoration projects, pest control, and collaboration with iwi and local communities to deliver biodiversity outcomes in challenging environments.