Science Advisor, predator science

DOC; Hamilton, Auckland, Whangarei; Hybrid; NZD 81,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible location

Mentoring and autonomy

Diverse conservation projects

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

DOC is seeking an early-career Science Advisor to advance predator research across Aotearoa. The role focuses on understanding how predators interact with trapping devices and improving trap performance in field settings.

You will work with experienced scientists and operational teams to deliver nationally significant projects supporting Predator Free goals and biodiversity outcomes, with mentoring and autonomy in a flexible location.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in ecology, zoology, animal behaviour, conservation biology, or related field.
• 1–2 years of research experience in ecology, wildlife science, animal behaviour, or related discipline.
• Strong analytical skills, including experience interpreting scientific data and applying statistical methods.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with the ability to work with stakeholders.
• Understanding of, or willingness to learn, Māori tikanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi in conservation science.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver operational research that evaluates predator trap interaction rates, device effectiveness, and attractant performance.
• Support national predator research programmes and collaborate with operational teams to improve conservation outcomes.
• Analyse ecological and behavioural data to provide robust, evidence-based recommendations.
• Collaborate with scientists, mana whenua, iwi, research organisations and conservation partners to deliver priorities.
• Contribute to research planning, implementation, reporting and publication of findings.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Collaboration

Statistical methods

Education

Master's degree or PhD in ecology/zoology/conservation biology

Tools

R

Python

GIS

Job description

## Science Advisor, predator scienceApply: Kirikiriroa Hamilton: Whangarei: Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland: Full time: Posted Today: JR102878* Shape predator control across Aotearoa through nationally significant research.* Grow your science career with mentoring, autonomy, and diverse conservation projects.* Flexible location: Hamilton, Auckland, or Whangārei **Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa** **He angitūtanga | About the role**Are you an emerging scientist with a passion for conservation, animal behaviour, and applied research? Join DOC's Biodiversity team and help deliver research that improves predator control outcomes across Aotearoa. This role focuses on understanding how predators interact with trapping devices and identifying ways to improve trap effectiveness, attraction, and performance in the field. Working alongside experienced scientists and operational teams, you'll contribute to nationally significant projects that support Predator Free goals and biodiversity outcomes. You'll have the opportunity to lead components of research programmes, analyse and interpret scientific data, collaborate with a wide range of partners, and see your work directly influence conservation practice on the ground. This is a varied role where no two projects are the same. As conservation challenges evolve, you'll have the opportunity to help shape future research priorities and contribute your expertise to improving predator control outcomes across Aotearoa. This is a permanent, full time role. **The position will be focused on:*** Designing and delivering operational research that evaluates predator trap interaction rates, device effectiveness, and attractant performance.* Supporting national predator research programmes and collaborating with operational teams to improve conservation outcomes.* Analysing ecological and behavioural data to provide robust, evidence-based recommendations.* Contributing to research planning, implementation, reporting, and publication of findings. Working with scientists, research providers, mana whenua, and conservation practitioners to deliver shared research priorities.* Providing science advice that supports biodiversity management and operational decision-making.* Working as an honourable Treaty partner to promote Māori engagement and involvement with our work.* Building and maintaining effective relationships across DOC, iwi, research organisations, and conservation partners. **Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience**This role would suit an early-career scientist keen to develop their conservation research career while contributing to work that has real-world impact. If you have some of the following, we are keen to hear from you:* A Master's or PhD in ecology, zoology, animal behaviour, conservation biology, or a related field.* Research experience (approximately 1-2 years) in ecology, wildlife science, animal behaviour, or a related discipline.* Knowledge of animal behaviour, predator ecology, biodiversity science, or wildlife management.* Strong analytical skills, including experience interpreting scientific data and applying statistical or quantitative methods.* Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work collaboratively and engage with a range of stakeholders.* An understanding of, or willingness to learn, Māori tikanga, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and how these relate to conservation science. **Desirable:*** Experience working with predator monitoring, trapping technologies, or wildlife research programmes.* Experience conducting field-based ecological research. Knowledge of New Zealand conservation challenges and predator management approaches.* Experience engaging with conservation practitioners, community groups, or operational delivery teams.* Current full New Zealand driver's licence. Click here for the position description. **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. We also support flexible working arrangements for our kaimahi across Aotearoa, with options considered based on the role and in discussion with your leader. Want to know more? **Tonoa inaiānei | Apply now**Apply online with your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation. We’re unable to accept emailed applications or provide feedback to applicants not shortlisted. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, let us know and we’ll try to accommodate. **Salary:** $80,695–$110,000, depending on skills and experience. **Eligibility:** You must hold a valid NZ work visa that covers the duration of employment. Please note, we are not engaging with recruitment agencies for this role. **Rā whakakapi | Applications close** at 11:59 pm on Monday 2 November 2026.**Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries**, please contact Clayson Howell at [e-mail]