Research Assistant (Fixed Term) at Department of Conservation, Southland
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
- Hands-on conservation role on Rakiura Stewart Island
- Carry out research on the Critically Endangered Pukunui/Southern New Zealand Dotterel
- Full-time, short-term role from 21 September 2026 - 15 January 2027
Our vision: Nature is thriving in Aotearoa | Te Oranga o te Ao Tūroa
Mō te tūranga | About the role
We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Assistant to join us and contribute to crucial conservation mahi. In this unique and largely field-based position, you'll be carrying out research on the Critically Endangered Pukunui/Southern New Zealand Dotterel on Rakiura Stewart Island during the upcoming breeding season.
The position will be focussed on:
The position will be focussed on:
- Conducting extensive field surveys
- Monitoring birds and nests
- Setting up nest cameras
- Collecting, managing and entering data
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and experience
If you have most of following, we are keen to hear from you:
- Strong back country experience with off-track navigation skills
- Experience working independently in remote, exposed locations
- Bird monitoring experience
- Data collection and collation skills
- Good physical fitness and able to carry a heavy pack
- Easy going with good interpersonal skills
Desirable:
- Relevant training or qualification
- Bird handling and banding
This is a full-time, fixed term role which starts on 21 September 2026 and ends on 15 January 2027.
Please note: The role is based on Rakiura Stewart Island while on duty. When in- field, you'll be based out of small huts and campsites in exposed, sub-alpine locations.
You'll work on a 10-days on and 4-days off roster. During your time off, you're welcome to be based anywhere; however, any travel to and from your chosen off-duty location is at your own expense. DOC will provide ferry travel between Invercargill and Rakiura Stewart Island for rostered shifts.
Please note: The role is based on Rakiura Stewart Island while on duty. When in- field, you'll be based out of small huts and campsites in exposed, sub-alpine locations.
You'll work on a 10-days on and 4-days off roster. During your time off, you're welcome to be based anywhere; however, any travel to and from your chosen off-duty location is at your own expense. DOC will provide ferry travel between Invercargill and Rakiura Stewart Island for rostered shifts.
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.
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.
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 non-shortlisted applicants.
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 non-shortlisted applicants.
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 New Zealand work visa that covers the duration of employment.
Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday, 28 July 2026
Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Kerry Weston, at kweston@doc.govt.nz
Salary: $61,189-$67,446 depending on skills and experience.
Eligibility: You must hold a valid New Zealand work visa that covers the duration of employment.
Rā whakakapi | Applications close at 11:59 pm on Tuesday, 28 July 2026
Me he pātai anō, whakapā mai | For further enquiries, please contact Kerry Weston, at kweston@doc.govt.nz
Ngā taipitopito tūranga mahi | Job details
| Employer: | Department of Conservation |
| Location: | Southland |
| Position type: | Fixed Term Contract |
| Category: | Science and Environment |
| Date listed: | 15-Jul-2026 |
| Salary range: | |
| Closing date: | 29-Jul-2026 |
| Reference: | JR102315_1784087390 |
| Attachment: | No File Attached |
| File links: | |
| Website: | http://www.doc.govt.nz/ |
Note: You may be redirected to the employer's careers website.
